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Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

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Chocolate mayonnaise cake is rich, moist, and packed with deep cocoa flavor. The secret ingredient makes every bite extra soft and decadent. This old-fashioned dessert comes together easily with pantry staples, no butter or oil needed. Top it with creamy frosting for the ultimate homemade treat!
This easy mayonnaise cake recipe walks you through every step with helpful photos and clear directions. Be sure to check out the pro tips and tricks for perfect results. We also answer the most frequently asked questions so you can make this cake with confidence!

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Chocolate mayo cake comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for last-minute desserts. The mayo keeps it extra moist without needing butter or oil.
This rich chocolate cake works for birthdays, holidays, or any time you crave something sweet. Top it with frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar for the perfect homemade treat!
What is a mayonnaise cake? It started during the Great Depression when fresh eggs were scarce, but it became a classic for its moist, fluffy texture. Don’t worry, you won’t taste the mayo. What you will taste is a chocolate cake that is moist and rich with chocolate flavor.

Ingredients for Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

What you'll need to make this Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake:
For The Cake:
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of sugar
- ½ cup of cocoa powder
- 4 teaspoons of baking soda
- 2 cups of mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 2 cups of water
For The Chocolate Frosting (optional):
- 1 cup of cocoa powder
- 1 cup of butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 5 cups of powdered sugar
- ½ cup of milk or more, if needed
Substitutions and Additions
As simple and delicious as this cake is, why not try creating something new by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your mayo cake uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
- Substitute Cocoa Powder: Use dark cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor or Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother, less acidic taste.
- Add Espresso Powder: A teaspoon of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
- Substitute Sugar: Swap white sugar for brown sugar to add a hint of caramel-like sweetness and extra moisture.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in chocolate chips for little pockets of melted chocolate in every bite.
- Substitute Frosting: Instead of chocolate frosting, try cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast or peanut butter frosting for a nutty twist.
- Add Nuts: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.
- Substitute Vanilla: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a subtle nutty flavor.
These easy swaps and additions let you customize this classic cake to match your cravings!
How to Make Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
Chocolate mayonnaise cake is rich, moist, and packed with deep chocolate flavor! Follow our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and tips and tricks below. Let’s get started and bake the best homemade chocolate cake ever!
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
Pro Tip
You could also use parchment paper to line your cake pans. You can buy pre-cut parchment paper rounds to make lining the round pans easier.
SECOND STEP: In a large bowl add the flour, sugar, cocoa, and baking soda. Take a whisk and whisk the dry ingredients to remove any lumps.

THIRD STEP: In a medium bowl add the mayonnaise, vanilla, and water and using a whisk mix together until smooth.

FOURTH STEP: Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry mixture and stir just until combined. Do not over mix.
Pro Tip
Don’t overmix the batter. It may appear slightly lumpy, but that is ok.

FIFTH STEP: Divide the batter between the two prepared pans.

SIXTH STEP: Bake this Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean.

SEVENTH STEP: Remove from oven and cool completely.
Pro Tip
It’s important to wait until the cakes are completely cool before icing. The icing will melt if spread on warm cakes.
EIGHTH STEP: Spread icing over the first cake, smoothing out to the edges.

NINTH STEP: Place the second cake on top, with the top side up.

TENTH STEP: Ice the sides and top of the cake with chocolate frosting.

How To Make Mayonnaise Chocolate Cake Frosting
FIRST STEP: Place the cocoa powder in a large mixing bowl. Add the melted butter.
SECOND STEP: Using a mixer, mix until combined and smooth.
THIRD STEP: Add the vanilla, powdered sugar, and milk and mix until smooth, beating for two to three minutes.
How To Serve Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
This rich, moist cake always gets rave reviews no matter the occasion! Here are some great serving suggestions:
- Birthday Parties: Make any birthday extra special with this homemade mayonnaise cake recipe. Add colorful sprinkles, candles, and a big scoop of cookie dough ice cream. Serve it with chocolate milkshakes or mint chocolate chip fudge for an extra sweet celebration.
- Holidays and Special Gatherings: This cake is a must for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any holiday feast. The deep chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with Snickers salad or banana fluff. Try serving it with Greek yogurt bark or homemade caramel sauce for a festive touch.
- Everyday Dessert: You don’t need a special occasion to enjoy this cake! It’s great for weeknight treats, potlucks, or bake sales. Pair it with chocolate whipped cream, chocolate pudding, or a drizzle of warm hot fudge sauce for a simple but delicious dessert.

Why You'll Love This Recipe for Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
Mayonnaise cake has been a favorite for generations. It’s rich, moist, and easy to make with simple pantry ingredients. Whether baking for a special occasion or just because, this cake never disappoints!
- Easy to Make: No fancy ingredients or complicated steps, just mix, bake, and enjoy.
- Super Moist: The mayo works magic, keeping every bite soft and rich without extra butter or oil.
- Classic and Nostalgic: This old-fashioned recipe brings back memories of family gatherings and home-baked treats.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults love this cake, making it perfect for birthdays, holidays, and casual get-togethers.
- Perfect Anytime: Whether for a celebration or a weeknight dessert, this cake always hits the spot.
Chocolate mayonnaise cake is a tried-and-true favorite, and once you bake it, you’ll see why it’s so loved!

Recipe FAQ
FAQ
Can I use any type of mayonnaise for chocolate mayonnaise cake?
Yes, you can use any full-fat mayonnaise for chocolate mayonnaise cake. Avoid light or low-fat versions since they change the texture.
Why does this recipe use mayonnaise instead of butter or oil?
Mayonnaise replaces butter and oil in this cake, adding moisture and richness. It keeps the cake soft without making it greasy.
Can I make chocolate mayonnaise cake in a different pan?
Yes, you can bake chocolate mayonnaise cake in a 9x13 pan, two 9-inch rounds, or as cupcakes. Adjust baking time accordingly.
What kind of frosting goes best with this cake?
Chocolate frosting is the most popular choice, but cream cheese, peanut butter, or vanilla frosting also taste great with this cake.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes, you can add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor in chocolate mayonnaise cake.
How do I know when my chocolate mayonnaise cake is done baking?
Your chocolate mayonnaise cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs.

Serving FAQ
What’s the best way to serve chocolate mayonnaise cake at a party?
Slice the cake into even squares or wedges for easy serving. Add frosting, sprinkles, or powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Should I serve chocolate mayonnaise cake warm or cold?
This cake tastes great at room temperature, but chilling it before slicing helps create cleaner cuts. Warm slices pair well with ice cream.
Can I serve chocolate mayonnaise cake without frosting?
Yes, this cake is rich enough to serve plain. Dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce for extra sweetness.
What’s the best way to serve this cake for a birthday?
Top it with candles, frosting, and colorful sprinkles for a fun birthday treat. Add a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence.
How can I make chocolate mayonnaise cake look more special for guests?
Garnish with chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or fresh berries for a beautiful and elegant presentation.
Is this cake kid-friendly?
Yes, kids love this rich and moist chocolate cake! Add fun toppings like whipped cream, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips.

Storage FAQ
Storing Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
Follow these simple storage tips to keep your chocolate mayonnaise cake fresh and delicious. Whether making it ahead or saving leftovers, proper storage helps maintain its moist texture. Check out the best ways to store, freeze, and reheat this rich chocolate cake below.
How should I store leftover chocolate mayonnaise cake?
Store leftover chocolate mayonnaise cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If frosted, refrigerate to keep the frosting firm.
Can I freeze chocolate mayonnaise cake?
Yes, you can freeze chocolate mayonnaise cake. Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen chocolate mayonnaise cake?
Thaw the frozen cake in the fridge overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Can I freeze the cake with frosting?
Freezing a frosted cake is possible, but buttercream holds up best. Wrap the cake loosely in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container.
How do I keep my cake from drying out?
Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to lock in moisture. Refrigeration helps if storing longer than three days.
What’s the best way to reheat chocolate mayonnaise cake?
Warm individual slices in the microwave for ten to fifteen seconds. This softens the texture and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
Ingredients
- 4 cups flour
- 2 cups sugar
- ½ cup cocoa
- 4 tsp baking soda
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 2 cups water
Chocolate Frosting
- 1 cup butter (melted)
- 1 cup cocoa
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup milk or more if needed
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two 9 inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl add the flour, sugar, cocoa and baking soda. Take a whisk and whisk the dry ingredients to remove any lumps.
- Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry mixture and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide the batter between the two prepared pans.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until toothpick or cake tester comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and cool completely.
- Ice with chocolate frosting.
Chocolate Frosting
- Place the cocoa in a large mixing bowl. Add the melted butter. Using a mixer mix until combined and smooth.
- Next add the vanilla, powdered sugar and milk and mix until smooth beating for 2-3 minutes






Comments
Jen says
Made this yesterday and it has already been devoured. It was SO delicious and the frosting was the best chocolate frosting I’ve ever tasted.
Estrella says
World like to know what is in eggs the mayonnaise example 1 egg = 2 spoon mayonnaise thanks
Shauna says
Hi Estrella, Use three Tablespoons of mayo to replace each egg that's called for
Cathy says
My Mother has added mayonnaise to her boxed chocolate cakes for as long as I can remember! I'll have to give it go with a scratch chocolate cake! Thanks for the recipe!
Barrie says
My family has been eating chocolate mayonnaise cake for decades. They are very moist and delicious!