We know what you’re thinking – mayonnaise in cake sounds absolutely crazy! But trust us when we say this chocolate mayonnaise cake will completely change your perspective on unconventional baking ingredients. This Depression-era recipe emerged when butter and eggs were scarce, and resourceful bakers discovered that mayonnaise creates the most incredibly moist and rich chocolate cake you’ll ever taste.
The secret lies in mayonnaise’s perfect combination of oil and eggs, which work together to create an ultra-tender crumb that stays fresh for days. We’ve perfected this recipe to deliver deep chocolate flavor with an amazingly velvety texture that’ll have your guests guessing the mystery ingredient.
Don’t let skepticism hold you back from trying this remarkable cake. Once you experience how effortlessly it comes together and taste that first fudgy bite, you’ll understand why chocolate mayonnaise cake has earned a devoted following among home bakers who know that sometimes the best recipes come from the most unexpected places.
Equipment Needed
Creating this remarkable chocolate mayonnaise cake requires standard baking equipment that most home bakers already have in their kitchen. We recommend gathering all your tools before starting to ensure a smooth baking process.
Essential Baking Equipment:
- Two 9-inch round cake pans or one 13×9-inch rectangular pan
- Large mixing bowl for combining wet and dry ingredients
- Medium mixing bowl for preparing the chocolate mixture
- Electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer)
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions
- Rubber spatula for folding and scraping
- Wire whisk for smooth batter consistency
- Wire cooling racks for proper cake cooling
Preparation Tools:
- Fine-mesh sieve for sifting cocoa powder and flour
- Small saucepan for heating water
- Wooden spoon for stirring hot ingredients
- Kitchen scale for precise measurements (optional but recommended)
Additional Supplies:
- Parchment paper for lining pans
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing pans
- Toothpick or cake tester for doneness checking
We find that having everything measured and ready before mixing creates the best results. The electric mixer proves particularly important for achieving the smooth texture that makes this mayonnaise cake so special. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily so we suggest taking your mayonnaise and eggs out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking.
Quality pans make a important difference in even baking. We prefer light-colored metal pans that conduct heat evenly and prevent over-browning of the cake’s exterior while the interior finishes cooking.
Ingredients
We’ve organized our ingredients into two sections to streamline your baking process. Having everything measured and ready ensures smooth preparation from start to finish.
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mayonnaise or Miracle Whip
- 1 cup lukewarm water
For the Chocolate Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Now that we have all our ingredients ready and equipment prepared, let’s walk through each step to create this remarkably moist chocolate mayonnaise cake.
Prep the Pan and Oven
We begin by preheating our oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease our chosen baking pan with butter or cooking spray, then dust with flour to prevent sticking. For round layer cakes, we use two 9-inch pans, while a single 13×9-inch rectangular pan works perfectly for sheet cake style. The even heat distribution at 350°F ensures our cake bakes uniformly without burning the edges.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In our large mixing bowl, we combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 2 teaspoons baking soda. We sift these ingredients together using a fine-mesh strainer to eliminate lumps and create a smoother batter. This sifting process helps the cocoa powder distribute evenly throughout the flour, preventing streaky spots in our finished cake.
Combine Wet Ingredients
Using a separate bowl, we whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1 cup lukewarm water, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until completely smooth. The mayonnaise should blend seamlessly with the water without leaving any visible streaks. Room temperature ingredients combine more easily, so we ensure our mayonnaise has been out of the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before mixing.
Assemble the Batter
We create a well in the center of our dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, we fold the ingredients together with gentle strokes until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in flour and creates a tough cake, so we stop stirring as soon as we no longer see dry flour streaks.
Bake the Cake
We pour the batter evenly into our prepared pan and smooth the top with an offset spatula. The cake bakes for 30-40 minutes, depending on pan size and depth. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. We allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
While our cake cools, we prepare the chocolate frosting by beating 1 cup softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Gradually we add 2 cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons whole milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. We beat the mixture on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until smooth and spreadable.
Assemble and Frost
Once our cake reaches room temperature, we place the first layer on a serving plate and spread frosting evenly across the top. We position the second layer and apply frosting to the top and sides, using smooth strokes to create an even finish. For sheet cake, we simply spread frosting across the entire surface and cut into squares for serving.
Storage Instructions
We know you’ll want to savor every last bite of this incredibly moist chocolate mayonnaise cake, so proper storage is essential to maintain its exceptional texture and flavor. Our storage recommendations vary depending on whether you’ve frosted the cake and what type of frosting you’ve chosen.
Room Temperature Storage
For unfrosted cake, we recommend storing it covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Your cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature, maintaining that signature moist crumb that makes this recipe so special.
Frosted cakes require different consideration based on your frosting choice. If you’ve used our chocolate frosting recipe or another butter-based frosting, room temperature storage works well for short periods. But, cream cheese frosting necessitates refrigeration rather than room temperature storage due to dairy content.
Refrigeration
We suggest storing your chocolate mayonnaise cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for extended freshness. Your cake will maintain its quality for up to 7 days when properly refrigerated, making it perfect for meal prep or special occasions.
Cream cheese frosted cakes must be refrigerated to prevent spoilage and maintain food safety standards. The cool temperature preserves both the cake’s moisture and the frosting’s stability.
Freezing Options
Unfrosted cake freezes beautifully for future enjoyment. We recommend allowing the cake to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Your frozen cake will maintain quality for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before serving to restore that perfect texture.
Frosted cakes can also be frozen successfully for up to one month. Brown sugar frosting and similar buttercream varieties freeze particularly well. Always thaw frosted cakes at room temperature to prevent condensation from affecting the frosting’s appearance.
| Storage Method | Duration | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature (Unfrosted) | 5 days | Airtight container or plastic wrap |
| Room Temperature (Frosted) | 2-3 days | Avoid cream cheese frosting |
| Refrigerated | 7 days | Airtight container |
| Frozen (Unfrosted) | 3 months | Tight plastic wrap |
| Frozen (Frosted) | 1 month | Room temperature thawing |
Storage Best Practices
Always ensure your cake has completely cooled before storing or freezing to prevent condensation buildup. Airtight containers preserve freshness better than loose coverings and prevent your cake from absorbing refrigerator odors.
Consider your frosting type when planning storage methods, as dairy-based frostings require refrigeration while buttercream frostings offer more flexibility. Room temperature thawing produces the best texture results for frozen cakes, so plan accordingly when serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love how convenient chocolate mayonnaise cake becomes when we plan ahead. This remarkable dessert offers exceptional flexibility for busy schedules and special occasions.
Room Temperature Storage Options
Our chocolate mayonnaise cake maintains its incredible moisture and flavor when stored at room temperature for up to five days. We recommend covering the unfrosted cake tightly with plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container to preserve its tender crumb.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Once we frost our cake, refrigeration becomes the preferred storage method. We can safely store frosted chocolate mayonnaise cake in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before serving, we always allow the cake to come to room temperature for optimal texture and flavor development.
Freezing for Long Term Storage
We find freezing particularly useful for advance preparation. Our cake layers can be baked, cooled completely, and frozen for up to two months without any loss in quality. We wrap each layer individually in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer bags for best results.
For complete convenience, we can freeze the fully assembled and frosted cake for up to one month. This method works exceptionally well when we need to prepare desserts weeks in advance for special events.
Travel Ready Convenience
We appreciate how travel friendly this cake becomes when baked in disposable aluminum containers. This approach makes our chocolate mayonnaise cake ideal for picnics, potlucks, and gatherings where we need easy transport and cleanup.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature (unfrosted) | Up to 5 days | Room temperature | Cover tightly |
| Refrigerated (frosted) | Up to 3 days | 35-40°F | Return to room temp before serving |
| Frozen (layers only) | Up to 2 months | 0°F | Wrap individually |
| Frozen (complete cake) | Up to 1 month | 0°F | Can include frosting |
We always ensure our cake cools completely before implementing any storage method. This practice prevents condensation and maintains the exceptional texture that makes chocolate mayonnaise cake so special.
Serving Suggestions
Our chocolate mayonnaise cake transforms into an elegant dessert with the right accompaniments and presentation choices. We recommend pairing this moist cake with classic frosting options that complement its rich chocolate flavor.
Vanilla buttercream creates the perfect contrast to our cake’s deep chocolate notes. The creamy sweetness balances beautifully with the cake’s intensity while maintaining the traditional appeal that makes this dessert so beloved. We find that this combination appeals to both children and adults at gatherings.
Dulce de leche frosting elevates the cake to sophisticated heights. The caramel undertones blend seamlessly with chocolate while adding a luxurious texture that makes each bite memorable. This pairing works exceptionally well for special occasions and dinner parties.
Chocolate frosting delivers the ultimate indulgence for serious chocolate enthusiasts. We suggest using a rich buttercream chocolate frosting that matches the cake’s moisture level without overwhelming the delicate mayonnaise-enhanced crumb.
For those preferring lighter accompaniments, we recommend serving individual slices with vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess provides a delightful temperature contrast while cleansing the palate between bites. This option works particularly well during warmer months or casual gatherings.
Fresh whipped cream offers another excellent plain serving option. The airy texture complements our cake’s dense richness while allowing the chocolate flavor to remain the star. We often garnish with fresh berries for added color and natural sweetness.
Consider dusting the cake with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant presentation. This simple touch adds visual appeal while hinting at the sweetness within. We also suggest serving with hot coffee or cold milk to complete the classic American dessert experience.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you that chocolate mayonnaise cake isn’t just a Depression-era novelty—it’s a legitimately delicious dessert that deserves a place in your modern baking repertoire. The science behind mayonnaise creates an exceptionally moist cake that stays fresh longer than traditional recipes.
Whether you’re planning ahead for a special occasion or need a reliable crowd-pleaser this recipe delivers every time. The versatility in storage options and serving suggestions makes it perfect for busy home bakers who want maximum impact with minimal stress.
Trust us—once you try this unconventional approach to chocolate cake you’ll understand why it’s survived for generations. Your guests will be asking for the secret ingredient and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’ve mastered one of baking’s best-kept secrets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chocolate mayonnaise cake and where did it originate?
Chocolate mayonnaise cake is an unconventional dessert that uses mayonnaise as a key ingredient instead of traditional butter. It originated during the Depression era when ingredients like butter and eggs were scarce. The mayonnaise, which contains oil and eggs, creates an incredibly moist and rich cake with a tender crumb that stays fresh for days.
Why use mayonnaise in baking?
Mayonnaise contains oil and eggs, which are essential ingredients for moist, tender baked goods. The combination creates a velvety texture and helps the cake retain moisture for several days. Despite initial skepticism, mayonnaise produces a deep chocolate flavor and surprisingly delightful texture that enhances the overall cake quality.
What equipment do I need to make chocolate mayonnaise cake?
You’ll need two 9-inch round cake pans or one 13×9-inch rectangular pan, mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups, and cooling racks. Quality, light-colored metal pans help achieve even baking and prevent over-browning. Having all ingredients measured and ready before starting ensures a smooth baking process.
What are the main ingredients for the cake?
The cake requires 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup mayonnaise or Miracle Whip, and 1 cup lukewarm water. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, so take mayonnaise and eggs out 30 minutes before baking.
How should I store chocolate mayonnaise cake?
Unfrosted cake can be stored tightly covered at room temperature for up to 5 days. Frosted cakes with butter-based frosting can stay at room temperature briefly, while cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration. For extended freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
Can I make chocolate mayonnaise cake ahead of time?
Yes! Unfrosted cakes can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 days when tightly covered. Frosted cakes should be refrigerated for up to 3 days and brought to room temperature before serving. Cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months, and fully assembled frosted cakes for up to 1 month.
What are the best serving suggestions for chocolate mayonnaise cake?
Pair with vanilla buttercream for balanced flavor, dulce de leche frosting for luxury, or rich chocolate buttercream for chocolate lovers. Lighter options include vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream with berries. Dust with powdered sugar for elegance and serve with hot coffee or cold milk for a classic experience.
