Chocolate Cake With Mayonnaise And Coffee Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Alright, let’s start by setting the stage. Imagine the rich, velvety texture of a chocolate cake melting in your mouth. Now, hold on tight because this isn’t just any chocolate cake. This cake’s secret weapon? Mayonnaise and coffee. Yes, you heard me right-mayonnaise! And coffee? Well, that’s the flavor booster that takes it to the next level.

• Why mayonnaise? It’s a game-changer in the baking world. Mayonnaise is essentially eggs and oil emulsified together, which means it adds incredible moisture and richness to the cake without making it greasy or heavy.
• Why coffee? Coffee enhances the deep chocolate flavor like nothing else. It doesn’t make the cake taste like coffee (unless you overdo it), but it brings out those bold cocoa notes so beautifully.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a moist, rich chocolate cake that’s surprisingly simple to whip up, even if you’re not a seasoned baker.

Chocolate Cake With Mayonnaise And Coffee Recipe

Here’s the scoop on what you’re about to create: a luscious chocolate cake that’s irresistibly moist, subtly complex in flavor, and surprisingly easy to make. The mayo keeps it tender and soft, the coffee intensifies the cocoa flavor, and the whole thing comes together in one bowl with minimal fuss.

• Texture? Soft, tender crumb with a slightly fudgy bite.
• Flavor? Deep chocolate enhanced by a touch of coffee bitterness and a hint of vanilla.
• Perfect for? Birthdays, afternoon treats, or impressing friends who think mayo in cake is a baking scandal.

Ingredients Needed

Now, let’s get down to business. Here’s what you’ll need, broken down so it’s easy to shop for:

• All-purpose flour – The base of our cake; provides structure.
• Granulated sugar – For sweetness and that classic cake balance.
• Cocoa powder (unsweetened) – The heart of the chocolate flavor. Use a good quality cocoa for best results.
• Baking soda – Helps the cake rise, creating that soft, fluffy texture.
• Salt – Just a pinch to balance and enhance the chocolate.
• Mayonnaise – The secret ingredient. Use full-fat mayo for richness.
• Strong brewed coffee – Hot and freshly brewed to activate and deepen the chocolate notes.
• Vanilla extract – For warmth and depth.
• Eggs – To bind everything together and add richness.
• Optional: powdered sugar or frosting for topping.

How To Make Chocolate Cake With Mayonnaise And Coffee

Alright, here’s the fun part! I’m going to walk you through this step-by-step like we’re baking together:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8-inch cake pan.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures no lumps and an even rise.
3. Add sugar: Stir the granulated sugar into the dry mix.
4. Add wet ingredients: In the same bowl, add the mayonnaise, eggs, vanilla extract, and hot coffee.
5. Combine gently: Using a whisk or spatula, mix until smooth. The batter will be a bit runnier than your typical cake batter – that’s perfect!
6. Pour into pan: Transfer the batter to your prepared pan, smoothing the top.
7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out for a moment because the science behind this cake is what makes it truly special:

• Mayonnaise is essentially eggs, oil, and vinegar or lemon juice emulsified together. This emulsification traps air and moisture, which translates into a cake that’s moist but not greasy.
• The oil and eggs in mayo replace the usual oil and eggs you’d add separately, simplifying the process.
• Coffee contains compounds called chlorogenic acids that boost the bitterness of chocolate, making the cocoa flavor pop. It also reacts with the cocoa powder to intensify the color and richness.
• Baking soda works best with acidic ingredients-in this case, the vinegar or lemon juice in mayonnaise acts as the acid to activate the baking soda, making your cake rise perfectly.

Expert Tips

Because I want your cake to come out flawless, here are some pro tips:

• Don’t skip the coffee! Even a small amount dramatically enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Use room temperature eggs and mayo for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
• Sift your dry ingredients for a lighter, lump-free batter.
• Test doneness by inserting a toothpick at 30 minutes; if it’s gooey, give it 5 more minutes.
• If you’re frosting, let the cake cool completely or your frosting will melt.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun spins on this classic:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in a handful of dark or semi-sweet chips for melty pockets of chocolate.
• Swap coffee for espresso powder: For an even bolder flavor without extra liquid.
• Use flavored mayonnaise: Like garlic mayo? No. But maybe a light avocado mayo for a subtle twist!
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch.
• Turn it into cupcakes: Same batter, just bake for 18-20 minutes.

Final Words

This chocolate cake with mayonnaise and coffee might sound a little unconventional, but it’s one of those delightful kitchen hacks that results in a show-stopping dessert. The mayo keeps it moist without grease, the coffee intensifies the chocolate without bitterness, and the entire recipe is surprisingly simple and quick.

Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be shouting from the rooftops about how mayo belongs in cake. Share it, serve it, and watch it disappear.

FAQs

What Is The Role Of Mayonnaise In A Chocolate Cake?

Mayonnaise acts as a substitute for eggs and oil in chocolate cake recipes. It helps keep the cake moist, adding richness and a tender crumb. The fat content in mayonnaise contributes to the cake’s softness.

Can I Use Store-bought Mayonnaise For This Recipe?

Yes, store-bought mayonnaise works perfectly for this recipe. However, make sure it’s a regular variety and not a low-fat version, as the fat content is essential for the cake’s texture.

What Type Of Coffee Should I Use In The Chocolate Cake Recipe?

It’s recommended to use brewed coffee, either hot or cooled, in this recipe. Strong coffee or espresso works best to enhance the chocolate flavor. Instant coffee or coffee granules can also be used, dissolved in hot water.

Can I Make This Chocolate Cake Recipe Without Coffee?

Yes, you can make this cake without coffee. You can substitute the coffee with hot water, milk, or even a non-caffeinated beverage like vanilla extract diluted in water. However, the depth of flavor from the coffee will be missing.

How Does The Coffee Affect The Flavor Of The Chocolate Cake?

The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor by deepening its richness. Coffee intensifies the cocoa notes, making the cake taste more decadent without adding a noticeable coffee flavor.

Can I Add Frosting To The Chocolate Cake With Mayonnaise And Coffee?

Yes, you can add frosting to this cake. A simple chocolate ganache, buttercream, or cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with the rich and moist texture of the cake. Choose a frosting that complements the deep chocolate and coffee flavors.

How Long Should I Bake The Chocolate Cake With Mayonnaise And Coffee?

The baking time typically ranges from 30 to 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C) depending on the size of the pan and your oven. It’s best to check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Is This Chocolate Cake Recipe Suitable For Vegans?

This recipe is not vegan, as it contains mayonnaise, which typically includes eggs. However, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative or a homemade eggless mayonnaise, as well as use plant-based coffee and other vegan ingredients.

Can I Make This Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, this chocolate cake can be made a day ahead. The moist texture actually improves after resting. Be sure to store the cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh and avoid it drying out.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Flour For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of flour such as whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly, so it’s important to test with the specific flour type to achieve the desired result.