Chocolate Cake
The moment you take a bite of Chocolate Cake, it feels like a warm hug, doesn’t it? It reminds me of my childhood when I would eagerly await birthday parties, hoping for that rich, decadent slice. Mrs. Dill’s version of this classic cake is special, not just because of its delightful texture, but also the nostalgic memories it evokes. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weekend, this Chocolate Cake always brings smiles and happy chatter around the table.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 15 mins
45 mins
30 mins
Medium
350 kcal
5g g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
15g g
Frying Pan, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet
What’s Great About This Chocolate Cake
It’s Incredibly Easy to Make
One of my favorite things about Chocolate Cake is how simple it is to whip together. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, you can create a dessert that feels like a labor of love. It’s perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick, satisfying treat.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This cake is versatile enough for any occasion. Be it a birthday, an office treat, or just a Tuesday evening craving, Chocolate Cake always fits right in. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate small victories or simply make an ordinary day a little sweeter.
Decadent Yet Comforting
The combination of creamy chocolate pudding and rich chocolate cake mix creates a moist texture that’s hard to resist. Each slice is a balance of decadence and comfort, making it a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of cake that you can enjoy on its own or pair with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
A Family Tradition
Every time I bake this cake, I think of my family gatherings. It has become a tradition to serve Chocolate Cake during special occasions, and the recipe has been passed down through generations. The joy of watching loved ones savor every bite makes me cherish these moments even more.
Customizable Goodness
What I love about this cake is its adaptability. You can add in nuts, sprinkles, or even a layer of frosting if you’re feeling fancy. Each variation brings a new twist, making it a fun recipe to experiment with.
Leftovers Are Always Welcome
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), they store beautifully. I love sneaking a piece for breakfast or enjoying it with my afternoon coffee. It’s one of those treats that just keeps giving!
What’s In This Chocolate Cake
When it comes to baking, the ingredients are just as important as the method. For this Chocolate Cake, we use a mix of comforting staples that blend perfectly together. The rich flavors of chocolate come from a delightful combination of chocolate pudding, cake mix, and chocolate chips, while the chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch.
- 5 ounce box cook and serve chocolate pudding mix – This is the secret to a moist cake. Make sure to use the cook and serve type for the best results!
- 3 cups milk (whole or 2%) – Essential for combining with the pudding mix, adding richness to the cake.
- 1 box chocolate cake mix – The base of our cake, providing that classic chocolate flavor.
- 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips – These are generously sprinkled on top, melting into an irresistible layer of chocolate goodness.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts – Optional, but they add a wonderful texture contrast to the soft cake.
Instructions for Chocolate Cake
Ready to dive into making this delightful Chocolate Cake? It’s easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps and let your kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of chocolate.
- Combine the chocolate pudding mix and the milk in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; as it heats, the mixture will thicken and start to bubble. This is when you’ll know it’s ready.
- Once thickened, remove the pudding from the heat. Pour it into a large mixing bowl, and to prevent a skin from forming, press a piece of wax paper against the surface of the pudding. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
- While the pudding cools, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan well; you don’t want your cake to stick!
- After the pudding has cooled a bit, remove the wax paper and give the pudding a good stir to ensure it’s smooth. Now, it’s time to add the chocolate cake mix. Pour it directly into the bowl and mix until everything is combined. Make sure there are no pockets of dry ingredients hiding in the mix.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the batter into an even layer, ensuring it reaches the corners of the pan.
- Now for the fun part! Sprinkle the top of the batter with chocolate chips and walnuts if you’re using them. These will create a delicious topping as the cake bakes.
- Bake your cake for 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
- Once baked, allow your Chocolate Cake to cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial, as it helps the flavors settle and makes slicing easier.
- Finally, once it’s cooled, slice it up and serve! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Things Worth Knowing
- Using the right type of pudding mix is essential. Stick to cook and serve for the best texture.
- Be patient while cooling the pudding; this step helps create the cake’s rich flavor.
- Greasing the pan thoroughly prevents sticking. You can also line it with parchment paper for extra security.
- For an extra moist cake, consider covering it with a clean kitchen towel after baking to trap steam.
Substitutions and Tips
Here are some handy tips to enhance your baking experience when making Chocolate Cake. Whether you’re looking for variations or some helpful storage ideas, I’ve got you covered!
- Storage: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature, and it should stay fresh for about three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Pairing: This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Variations: Try adding a layer of frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar for a prettier presentation.
- Mix-ins: You can add in some chocolate chunks or your favorite nuts for added texture.
Accompaniments for Chocolate Cake
When it comes to serving Chocolate Cake, the options are delightful! Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
- Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream adds a creamy contrast that’s hard to resist.
- Fresh Berries: Top your slice with fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a pop of color and tartness.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream enhances the cake’s richness beautifully.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle some warm chocolate ganache over your cake for a show-stopping effect.
- Seasonal Occasions: This cake is perfect for birthdays, weddings, or even a simple family dinner.
- Storing Tips: If you have any leftovers, store them in a cool, dry place. This cake keeps well for short periods and tastes better the day after baking!
FAQ
Conclusion
This Chocolate Cake is truly a beloved recipe that brings joy to every occasion. Its rich flavor and easy preparation make it a go-to for gatherings and family dinners alike. I encourage you to try it for yourself and share the love with your family and friends. There’s something incredibly special about bringing people together over a homemade dessert, and this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home too.
Chocolate Cake
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Oven
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 5 ounce chocolate pudding mix This is the secret to a moist cake. Make sure to use the cook and serve type for the best results!
- 3 cups milk Essential for combining with the pudding mix, adding richness to the cake.
- 1 box chocolate cake mix The base of our cake, providing that classic chocolate flavor.
- 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips These are generously sprinkled on top, melting into an irresistible layer of chocolate goodness.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts Optional, but they add a wonderful texture contrast to the soft cake.
Instructions
- Combine the chocolate pudding mix and the milk in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and bubbles are just beginning to form.
- Remove from the heat and pour the pudding into a large mixing bowl. Press wax paper against the surface of the pudding and cool to room temperature.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Remove the wax paper from the pudding and give it a stir. Add the chocolate cake mix to the bowl and stir to combine, ensuring there are no pockets of dry ingredients.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth into an even layer. Sprinkle the top with the chocolate chips and walnuts.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Tip 1: Nutritional values are based on one serving.
- Tip 2: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature, and it should stay fresh for about three days.
- Tip 3: You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Tip 4: This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Tip 5: Try adding a layer of frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar for a prettier presentation.
