Death by Chocolate Cake

Death by Chocolate Cake—a name that sparks a sense of excitement and indulgence—promises to envelop your taste buds in a rich, chocolatey embrace. With its moist layers of Devil’s Food cake, luscious chocolate ganache, and an explosion of chocolate chips, this dessert is truly a celebration of all things chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or simply when you need a dose of sweetness, this recipe is a step-by-step guide to creating a show-stopping treat that will leave chocolate lovers weak at the knees. Elevate your baking with this cake that’s not just a dessert; it’s a profound experience worth making for any chocolate aficionado!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this Death by Chocolate Cake recipe. For starters, it requires minimal prep, making it an easy option for even beginner bakers. With family-friendly appeal, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works wonders at children’s parties or gatherings with loved ones. The blend of simple ingredients transforms into a luxurious cake that feels like a professional patisserie creation right from your home kitchen. The delightful mix of flavors, from the deep chocolate base to the rich ganache, means every bite is an adventure that invites laughter and joy around the dining table.

Ingredients for Death by Chocolate Cake

To whip up this mouthwatering Death by Chocolate Cake, gather the following ingredients:

1 box Devil’s Food cake mix, the basis for rich, deep flavors.
1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding, ensuring extra moisture and decadence.
5 large eggs, for binding and richness.
1 tsp vanilla extract, enhancing the cake’s sweetness.
3/4 cup vegetable oil, adding moisture and tenderness.
1 cup sour cream or buttermilk, contributing to a velvety texture.
3/4 cup brewed coffee, elevating the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.
2 cups Nestlé Toll House chocolate chips, for an indulgent burst of chocolate in every bite.

For the Ganache Icing:

1 stick salted butter, guaranteeing a rich finish.
2 tbsp cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate experience.
1/2 box powdered sugar, for sweetness and creaminess.
1 tsp vanilla extract, tying the flavors together.
3 tbsp milk, achieving a pourable consistency.
1/2 cup pecan pieces, adding a delightful crunch opposite the smooth ganache.

Step-by-Step Directions for Death by Chocolate Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking dish by greasing and flouring a 9×13-inch pan.
In a large bowl, combine the box of Devil’s Food cake mix and the instant chocolate pudding mix. Stir these dry ingredients together for an even blend.
Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, sour cream or buttermilk, and brewed coffee. Mix well until the batter is smooth—don’t be afraid to use a hand mixer for efficiency!
Once combined, gently fold in the Nestlé Toll House chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the rich batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smooth the top with a spatula, and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
While the cake cools in the pan, prepare the ganache. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter.
Stir in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until the ganache is smooth and creamy, which should take just a few minutes.
Once the cake has completely cooled, drizzle the rich ganache over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecan pieces for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
Allow the ganache to set for about 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares and serving this decadent treat.

Tips & Tricks

For an even moister cake, consider using buttermilk instead of sour cream.
Want it even more chocolatey? Fold in an extra cup of chocolate chips or use mini chocolate chips for a different texture.
If you have time, let the cake sit for a day in the fridge; this enhances the flavors beautifully as they meld together.
Try garnishing your cake with fresh raspberries or whipped cream to balance out the sweetness with a bit of tartness.
For a gluten-free version, swap the cake mix with a gluten-free alternative or make the cake entirely from scratch using gluten-free flour.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Present the Death by Chocolate Cake elegantly by cutting it into generous squares and plating with a dollop of whipped cream alongside. Drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce on the plate for an aesthetic touch. Pair it with a strong cup of brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk to enhance the flavor experience. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, complements the richness of the cake beautifully, adding freshness to each bite.

Nutritional Information

Indulging in the Death by Chocolate Cake offers a delightful blend of decadence without skimping on flavor. A single serving (1/12th of the cake) contains approximately 350 calories, with a substantial amount of sugar (around 30g) and fat (about 18g). While this cake is deliciously indulgent, remember that a slice should be enjoyed on special occasions for a balance of health and happiness!

Storing Tips & Variations for Death by Chocolate Cake

The Death by Chocolate Cake can be stored in an airtight container, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer to freeze it, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and foil; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, simply place a piece in the microwave for a few seconds—just enough to restore its delicious moistness. For healthier swaps, consider using unsweetened applesauce instead of oil or reducing the sugar content a bit.

Conclusion for Death by Chocolate Cake

Don’t wait another moment to create your own slice of heaven with this Death by Chocolate Cake! Each bite is guaranteed to satisfy your sweetest cravings and impress everyone at your table. With its perfect combination of rich chocolate, smooth textures, and that little crunch from pecans, you’ll find it hard not to reach for a second piece. So roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and let’s start baking this delightful dessert that’s sure to be the highlight of your gatherings!

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it the day before serving! Just keep it covered at room temperature or refrigerated if you’re using perishable ingredients like sour cream.
Can I use different cake mixes?
Absolutely! While Devil’s Food cake mix is traditional, you can experiment with a chocolate fudge mix or even a peanut butter version for a unique twist.
What should I do if I don’t have brewed coffee?
You can substitute brewed coffee with an equal amount of hot water. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, but a hot water replacement will still yield delicious results.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can replace each egg with a quarter cup of applesauce, mashed banana, or a commercial egg substitute for a vegan option.