Devil’s Food Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. My grandma taught me this recipe, and it’s been my go-to chocolate cake ever since. The dark brown sugar and melted chocolate create deep, rich flavors, while the buttermilk keeps everything super moist. The orange-flavored frosting adds a bright, fresh twist that makes this cake extra special.
About the Recipe
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between richness and lightness. The cake is deeply chocolatey but not heavy. The frosting has just enough citrus to brighten the whole dessert without overpowering the chocolate. It’s simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for special occasions. Each bite offers a perfect mix of tender cake and creamy frosting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love how straightforward this recipe is – no fancy techniques needed. The cake turns out perfectly moist every time, thanks to the buttermilk and boiling water. The frosting is light and fluffy, with hints of orange that complement the chocolate beautifully. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find in any grocery store. The end result looks like it came from a bakery but tastes homemade in the best way possible.
Devil s Food Cake
Cooking Tips
– Let all ingredients reach room temperature before starting
– Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour
– Make sure your oven is fully preheated
– Test for doneness with a toothpick in the center
– Cool the cake completely before frosting
– Whisk the frosting constantly for best results
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 8-10 people. Total prep time: 1 hour. Keep covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving. Perfect with coffee or milk. For best results, serve slightly chilled if frosted.
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Nutrient Benefits
Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and minerals like iron and magnesium. Eggs provide protein and essential vitamins. Orange juice adds vitamin C. While this is a dessert, using dark chocolate and fresh citrus brings some nutritional value to this treat.
Devil's Food Cake
Ingredients
- 50 gms Plain Chocolate (melted)
- 125 gms Maida
- 1/2 tsp Soda Bicarbonate
- 100 gms Butter (+ little extra)
- 200 gms Dark Brown Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla Essence
- 2 Eggs (small)
- 50 to 50 ml Buttermilk
- 125 ml Boiling Water
For Frosting:
- 150 gms Caster Sugar
- 1 Egg White
- 1/2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 1/2 tbsp Orange Juice
- Orange Peel (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Combine and sift the maida and soda bicarb together.
- Beat together butter and sugar in a bowl till fluffy.
- Add the vanilla essence and eggs.
- Beat well.
- Add a little flour if the mixture starts to curdle.
- Add the melted chocolate and blend well.
- Add the flour, buttermilk and boiling water.
- Mix well.
- Divide the mixture between 2 greased cake tins.
- Place them in a preheated oven at 190C/375F for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Remove and cool.
- Combine the frosting ingredients in a bowl over a pan of simmer water.
- Whisk until soft peaks form.
- Remove from heat and whisk till the mixture is cool.
- Cut the cake into slices and then into halves.
- Spread the frosting on one half and cover with the other half.
- Spread some more frosting on the sides and top.
- Garnish with orange peel.
- Serve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes. Replace each egg with ¼ cup mashed banana or applesauce. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Will this recipe work in a 9×13 pan?
You can bake this in a 9×13 pan for about 35-40 minutes. Just watch it carefully and test with a toothpick.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
The cake layers can be made 1-2 days ahead. Store wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Frost just before serving.
