Quick Recipe Introduction
This Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is an old-fashioned favorite for a reason—moist, rich, and incredibly easy to make. The mayonnaise keeps the cake tender and smooth, while cocoa powder gives it that deep chocolate flavor everyone craves. No butter, no oil—just pure, simple decadence in every slice.
Summary
Yield: 1 (9×13-inch) cake or 2 round layers • Prep: 15 minutes • Bake: 30–35 minutes • Level: Easy
Equipment
- 2 mixing bowls
- Whisk and rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round pans
- Parchment paper (optional, for round pans)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup mayonnaise (not low-fat)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Optional Chocolate Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your pan or line with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, sugars, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk mayonnaise, water, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine batter: Add wet ingredients to dry and mix gently until just combined. Don’t overmix.
- Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting or serving.
- Make frosting (optional): Beat butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla until fluffy. Spread evenly over cooled cake.
Notes
- Use regular mayonnaise (not low-fat or flavored) for the best texture.
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, add 1 tsp espresso powder to the batter.
- Don’t overbake—start checking at 30 minutes for a moist crumb.
- Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
Tips for Success
- Use good cocoa: Quality unsweetened cocoa makes a big difference in flavor.
- Mix lightly: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of fluffy.
- Cool fully: Frosting too soon can cause it to melt into the cake.
- Mayonnaise temperature: Use room-temperature mayo for the smoothest batter.
- Enhance with coffee: Substitute half the water with brewed coffee to intensify chocolate flavor.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Layered cake: Slice the cake in half horizontally and spread frosting or whipped cream between layers.
- Bundt version: Bake in a greased bundt pan for 40–45 minutes for a stunning presentation.
- Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
- Dairy-free: Use vegan mayonnaise and plant-based milk in the frosting.
- Chocolate chips: Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for extra richness.
Storage Options
- Room temperature: Store covered for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for 5–6 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, then frost.
- Frosted cake: Wrap tightly to prevent drying out and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the cake taste like mayonnaise?
No! The mayonnaise only adds moisture and richness—there’s no mayo flavor once baked.
Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
It’s not recommended, as Miracle Whip contains sugar and spices that can alter the taste.
What’s the best frosting for Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake?
Classic chocolate buttercream, whipped ganache, or even cream cheese frosting pair perfectly.
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, the flavor actually improves after a day—just store covered at room temperature or in the fridge.
Why is my cake dense?
Overmixing or using cold ingredients can make the batter heavy. Mix gently and use room-temperature items.
Conclusion
The Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is a timeless classic that proves simplicity and creativity go hand in hand. Moist, rich, and foolproof, it’s the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream—perfect for family gatherings, birthdays, or cozy weekend baking. Once you try it, this recipe will become a cherished favorite in your dessert rotation.