Death by Chocolate Cake

Death by Chocolate Cake is an indulgent dessert that brings together rich chocolate flavors in a delightful symphony that’s impossible to resist. This heavenly treat is perfect for chocolate lovers and is sure to impress anyone who has a sweet tooth. With its layered textures and a luscious ganache topping, this cake is an experience for the senses. Get ready to embark on a baking adventure as we guide you through the recipe step-by-step, showing you just how easy it is to elevate your dessert game.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Death by Chocolate Cake is loved for many reasons. First, it requires minimal prep time while providing maximum flavor and satisfaction. Each bite is like a journey through a chocolate wonderland, making it suitable for various occasions—birthdays, anniversaries, or simply a treat for yourself. The family-friendly nature of this recipe means you can easily get the kids involved in the kitchen helping to mix the batter or decorate the cake. Plus, with ingredients you probably already have on hand, it makes for a quick and enjoyable baking experience.

Ingredients for Death by Chocolate Cake

1 box Devil’s Food cake mix
1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding
5 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup sour cream or buttermilk
3/4 cup brewed coffee
2 cups Nestlé Toll House chocolate chips
1 stick salted butter
2 tbsp cocoa powder
1/2 box powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 tbsp milk
1/2 cup pecan pieces

These ingredients combine to create an incredibly moist and decadent cake. The rich chocolate flavor is accented by the nuttiness of the pecans and the silky smooth ganache, ensuring that this cake truly lives up to its name.

Step-by-Step Directions for Death by Chocolate Cake

Preheat your oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your cake bakes evenly and comes out moist.
Prepare the baking dish: Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking, allowing for easy removal later.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Devil’s Food cake mix and the instant chocolate pudding mix. This blend sets the foundation for your rich chocolate flavor.
Add the wet ingredients: Crack in the five large eggs and add the vanilla extract, vegetable oil, sour cream (or buttermilk), and brewed coffee. Mix everything well until the batter is smooth and cohesive.
Incorporate the chocolate chips: Carefully fold in the Nestlé Toll House chocolate chips, spreading them throughout the batter for delightful pockets of chocolate goodness.
Pour and bake: Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare the ganache: While the cake cools, melt the salted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is velvety and combined.
Drizzle and serve: Once the cake has cooled, pour the ganache over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Let the cake set for 10-15 minutes before slicing into it.

Tips & Tricks

For the best results, consider these tips! Upgrade your cake’s flavor by using high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips, enhancing the chocolate experience. To ensure a moist cake, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the eggs and wet ingredients. If you want added texture, feel free to add an extra cup of chopped nuts or even a layer of whipped cream between layers if you choose to make it multi-layered. And for those who enjoy a bit of zest, consider grating some orange or lemon peel into the batter to give it a unique citrus twist.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

When it comes to serving Death by Chocolate Cake, presentation is everything! Consider garnishing with additional whole pecans or a dusting of cocoa powder for a sophisticated finish. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to celebrate the rich chocolate flavors. Pair with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance out the sweetness of the cake.

Nutritional Information

This indulgent dessert serves approximately 12 people. Each slice contains a delightful combination of calories and nutrients that should be enjoyed in moderation. While precise nutritional information will vary, a typical serving may have around 300-400 calories, making it a perfect occasional treat. Keep in mind, though, that given the rich and creamy ingredients, this isn’t meant to be an everyday dessert but rather a special indulgence.

Storing Tips & Variations for Death by Chocolate Cake

If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine), you can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing the slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. For a healthier twist, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or buttermilk, and use a sugar substitute to lower the calorie count.

Conclusion for Death by Chocolate Cake

Now that you’ve had the chance to discover the richness of Death by Chocolate Cake, it’s time to get baking! This is more than just a cake; it’s an experience filled with guests’ laughter, sweet moments, and chocolatey bliss. Don’t wait too long—this recipe is calling your name, and your taste buds deserve a treat that’s utterly divine.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be baked a day in advance. Just ensure to store it properly with the ganache added just before serving for the freshest taste.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
While Devil’s Food cake mix adds a rich chocolatey flavor, you can experiment with other chocolate cake mixes if desired. Just consider that the overall taste and texture may differ slightly.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can replace eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water to create a vegan version of the cake.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze individual slices for later enjoyment.
What can I serve alongside the cake?
This cake goes beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries to balance out the rich flavor of chocolate. A strong cup of coffee is also a fantastic choice!