Decadent Double Chocolate Fudge Cake
Introduction
This legendary chocolate cake has earned a reputation for being dangerously easy and irresistibly moist. Born from a happy kitchen accident, it’s the cake that disappears first at gatherings, with guests sneaking back for second and third helpings. It’s less a recipe and more a delicious threat to your willpower!
A Slice of History
The “too-easy” chocolate cake has roots in mid-20th century “dump cakes,” designed for busy home bakers seeking convenience without sacrificing flavor. This version elevates the concept with rich cocoa and a surprise ingredient—mayonnaise—which replaces eggs and oil, creating an unbelievably tender, moist crumb that has puzzled and delighted dessert lovers for generations.
Formation & Benefits
The magic lies in its unconventional formation: mayonnaise acts as the emulsified fat base, ensuring even distribution of moisture. This results in a cake that stays fresh for days, requires no special equipment, and is remarkably forgiving. It’s a one-bowl wonder that proves spectacular desserts don’t need complicated steps.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
· 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
· 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
· ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred)
· 2 teaspoons baking soda
· 1 teaspoon baking powder
· 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (enhances chocolate flavor)
· 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
· 1 cup (240g) full-fat mayonnaise (not low-fat)
· 1 cup (240ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled
· 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
· 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Fudge Frosting:
· 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
· 1 ¼ cups (125g) unsweetened cocoa powder
· 5 cups (600g) powdered sugar, sifted
· ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, plus more as needed
· 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
· ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions & Methods
Making the Cake:
1. Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, espresso powder, and salt. Whisk until completely uniform.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk mayonnaise, coffee, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Mix: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula or whisk just until combined—do not overmix. A few lumps are fine.
5. Bake: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes (or 35-40 for a 9×13 pan), until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Making the Fudge Frosting:
1. Cream Base: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Incorporate Cocoa: Add cocoa powder and mix on low until combined (to avoid a dust cloud), then increase speed until fully blended.
3. Alternate Additions: Add half the powdered sugar and mix on low. Add milk, vanilla, and salt. Mix. Add remaining powdered sugar. Beat on medium-high for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add a splash more milk if needed for spreadable consistency.
Assembly:
1. Layer: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with a generous cup of frosting.
2. Top: Place second layer on top. Frost top and sides with remaining frosting. For a 9×13 cake, simply frost the top.
3. Set: Allow cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
For the Lovers
This cake is for the chocolate devotees, the comfort-food seekers, and the time-crunched bakers. It’s for birthday celebrations, potluck heroes, and anyone who believes the best desserts are shared. It’s a hug in cake form.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, 1/12 of cake)
Approximate values:
· Calories: 680
· Total Fat: 32g
· Saturated Fat: 14g
· Cholesterol: 45mg
· Sodium: 480mg
· Total Carbohydrates: 102g
· Dietary Fiber: 5g
· Sugars: 78g
· Protein: 6g
Enjoy as an occasional indulgence—its richness means a small slice satisfies.
Conclusion
This Decadent Double Chocolate Fudge Cake is a testament to simplicity yielding extraordinary results. It’s a recipe that builds community, one helping at a time, turning the baker into a legend. Its “dangerous” ease guarantees it will become a cherished, frequently requested staple in your repertoire. Bake it, share it, and watch it bring joy.
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