Devils Food Cake Recipe

Devils Food Cake is a rich and decadent chocolate cake that has captivated dessert lovers for generations. With its moist texture and deep chocolate flavor, it’s no wonder this cake has become a classic. This recipe takes you through every step to create a cake that is both indulgent and satisfying, perfect for any occasion. The balance of flavors, combined with a heavenly frosting, makes this cake a true showstopper.

Why This Devils Food Cake Recipe Stands Out

This Devils Food Cake recipe is not just any chocolate cake; it is crafted with care to ensure it delivers a perfect balance of richness and fluffiness. The addition of strong coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, while the combination of cake flour and cocoa powder creates a tender crumb. With a simple yet effective method, this recipe guarantees a cake that is as delicious as it is impressive, making it ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home.

Your Shopping Guide

• Unsweetened cocoa powder (9 tablespoons) – The star ingredient that gives the cake its deep chocolate flavor.
• Cake flour (1 1/2 cups) – Opt for cake flour instead of all-purpose for a lighter texture.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon) – Provides leavening for a nice rise.
• Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon) – Adds extra lift to the cake.
• Unsalted butter (4 ounces + 3/4 cup) – Use room temperature for easy mixing and a rich flavor.
• Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups) – Sweetens the cake and helps it achieve a tender crumb.
• Large eggs (2) – At room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
• Strong coffee (1/2 cup) or water – Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor; water can be used as a substitute.
• Whole or low-fat milk (1/2 cup) – Adds moisture to the cake.
• Bittersweet or semisweet chocolate (10 ounces) – Adds a rich chocolate flavor to the frosting.
• Water or cream (1/2 cup) – Necessary for melting the chocolate for the frosting.

Essential Tools for Success

• Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients easily.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
• Electric mixer – Helps to achieve a smooth batter and fluffy frosting.
• Rubber spatula – Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding ingredients.
• 9-inch round cake pans – Ideal for baking the cake layers evenly.
• Cooling rack – Essential for cooling the cakes without trapping moisture.

Devils Food Cake Recipe: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and lightly dust them with cocoa powder. This will help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter (4 ounces) and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, ensuring a tender cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Coffee

Add the large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in the strong coffee (or water) and whole or low-fat milk. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a heatproof bowl, combine the bittersweet or semisweet chocolate and water or cream. Melt over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.

Step 9: Beat the Butter for the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter (3/4 cup) until creamy. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture, beating until well combined and fluffy.

Step 10: Frost the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then stack the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve it to your friends and family. Enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness of your homemade Devils Food Cake!

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

• Gluten-free flour – Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in place of cake flour.
• Dairy-free butter – Substitute with a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
• Flax eggs – Replace each egg with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for a vegan option.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Do not overmix the batter; this can lead to a tough cake.
• Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, storing them for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and frost as desired.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

While you can use all-purpose flour, cake flour is recommended for a lighter and more tender crumb. If you must use all-purpose flour, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to each cup to mimic cake flour’s properties.

What can I substitute for coffee in this recipe?

You can use hot water in place of coffee if you prefer. However, using coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, so if you’re not a coffee fan, try to stick with it for the best results.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out wet with batter, allow the cake to bake for a few more minutes.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them well and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to frost and serve.

The Takeaway

This Devils Food Cake recipe is a timeless classic that brings joy to any dessert table. Its rich flavors and moist texture make it a favorite among chocolate lovers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also memorable. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a cake that will delight everyone who tastes it!