Name: Moist Chocolate Mayo Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups flour; 2 cups sugar; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 4 teaspoons baking soda; 2 cups mayonnaise; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups water; 1 cup cocoa powder (for frosting); 1 cup butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting); 5 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup milk, or more if needed

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Rich, moist, and surprisingly delicious, this classic Moist Chocolate Mayo Cake is tender, flavorful, and perfect for any dessert table. I love how the mayonnaise creates an incredibly soft texture while enhancing the rich chocolate flavor. This cake is simple to make, stays moist for days, and is always a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, potlucks, and celebrations.

Moist Chocolate Mayo Cake

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cake:

4 cups flour

2 cups sugar

½ cup cocoa powder

4 teaspoons baking soda

2 cups mayonnaise

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups water

For the frosting:

1 cup cocoa powder

1 cup butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

5 cups powdered sugar

½ cup milk, or more if needed

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large cake pan.

In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking soda.

I add the mayonnaise, vanilla extract, and water, then mix until the batter is smooth and fully combined.

I pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.

I bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

I allow the cake to cool completely before adding the frosting.

For the frosting, I combine the cocoa powder, melted butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and milk until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

I spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

I slice and serve the cake.

Servings and timing

Servings: 16 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes add a teaspoon of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.

I like folding in chocolate chips for extra richness and texture.

I occasionally substitute the vanilla frosting flavor with peppermint extract for a festive twist.

I enjoy topping the finished cake with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

I sometimes use a cream cheese chocolate frosting for a tangier finish.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I need to keep it longer, I refrigerate it for up to 1 week. For extended storage, I wrap individual slices tightly and freeze them for up to 3 months.

When I am ready to enjoy a refrigerated slice, I let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. If I prefer it slightly warm, I microwave a slice for 10 to 15 seconds.

FAQs

Why is mayonnaise used in chocolate cake?

I use mayonnaise because it contains oil and eggs, which help create a moist, tender cake while enhancing the overall richness.

Does the cake taste like mayonnaise?

I find that the mayonnaise flavor completely disappears during baking, leaving only a rich and delicious chocolate taste.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, I often bake the cake a day in advance because the flavor and texture remain excellent, and it stays moist.

Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely. I enjoy pairing this cake with cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

I check the center with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready to come out of the oven.

Conclusion

I love this Moist Chocolate Mayo Cake because it combines simple ingredients with impressive results. The cake is rich, soft, and deeply chocolatey, while the creamy frosting makes it even more irresistible. Whether I am baking for a special occasion or simply craving a homemade dessert, this recipe consistently delivers a moist and flavorful cake that everyone enjoys.

📖 Recipe:

Moist Chocolate Mayo Cake

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 16 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey, this classic chocolate mayo cake delivers a tender crumb and decadent flavor. Topped with a creamy chocolate frosting, it's perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or everyday dessert cravings.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking soda.
Add the mayonnaise, vanilla extract, and water. Mix until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely.
For the frosting, combine the cocoa powder, melted butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Slice and serve.