Delicious Devil’s Food Cake Recipe

Devil’s Food Cake is the ultimate chocolate cake—intensely rich, ultra-moist, and shrouded in luscious chocolate frosting. Its legacy dates back to the early 1900s, prized for its deep cocoa flavor and irresistible tenderness.

This recipe, adapted from a cherished family tradition, captures that decadent nostalgia in every bite. Whether you make it as a layer cake or cupcakes, it’s a showstopper for birthdays, holidays, or any moment that calls for pure chocolate indulgence.

With step-by-step instructions and expert baking tips, you’ll easily create a cake that rivals any bakery.

Ingredients Checklist

Quality ingredients are the secret to the best Devil’s Food Cake. Here’s what you’ll need, plus substitutions and optional add-ins for even more chocolate bliss.

For the Cake

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

• 3/4 cup (65g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder (for rich flavor and color)

• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar (for moisture and a caramel note)

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon fine salt

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, at room temperature

• 1/2 cup (120ml) neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or melted coconut oil)

• 3 large eggs, at room temperature

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream or full-fat plain yogurt

• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature

• 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee (or hot water with 1 tsp espresso powder, for a deeper chocolate flavor)

For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream

• 12 oz (340g) bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped

• 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, at room temperature

• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3/4 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, for depth)

• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

Optional Add-Ins and Garnishes

• 1 cup mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings for the batter or garnish

• Toasted nuts, berries, or edible gold leaf for an elegant finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

This method yields moist, tall cake layers that slice beautifully and stay fresh for days.

1. Prep and Pan Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease and flour three 8-inch or two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment for easy release.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugars

• In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream the butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes on medium speed).

• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla.

4. Add Sour Cream and Mix

• Blend in the sour cream until smooth and creamy.

5. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients

• Add one-third of the dry ingredients to the batter, mixing on low.

• Add half the milk and mix until just combined.

• Repeat, alternating dry and wet ingredients, ending with the final portion of dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

6. Add Hot Coffee

• With the mixer on low, slowly stream in the hot coffee. The batter will be thin—this ensures a moist crumb.

7. Bake

• Divide the batter evenly among pans.

• Bake for 28–33 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).

• Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Make the Fudge Frosting

• Heat the cream in a saucepan until just simmering.

• Pour over the chopped chocolate and let sit 2 minutes. Stir until smooth.

• Beat in the softened butter, then add powdered sugar, vanilla, espresso powder, and salt. Beat until glossy and fluffy.

• If the frosting is too soft, chill for 15–20 minutes, then whip again for a spreadable consistency.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Use Dutch-Processed Cocoa: For the signature deep color and rich chocolate taste.

• Don’t Overmix: Blend ingredients until just combined for a tender crumb.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Prevents curdling and ensures even rise.

• Check Early: Start testing cakes 5 minutes before the earliest recommended time.

• Level Your Layers: For a professional look, trim domed tops with a serrated knife.

• Crumb Coat: Spread a thin layer of frosting to trap crumbs, chill, then finish with a thicker coat.

• For Extra Moisture: Brush cake layers with a simple syrup (sugar dissolved in hot water) before assembling.

Serving Suggestions

Devil’s Food Cake is stunning on its own, but here are some creative serving ideas:

• Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or chocolate curls for a gourmet finish.

• Serve with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or cherries to cut the richness.

• Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream.

• Add a swirl of whipped cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce.

• For celebrations, top with edible flowers or gold dust for visual flair.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Let slices come to room temp before serving for the best texture.

• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before frosting.

• Cupcake Version: Fill lined muffin tins 2/3 full, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

• Vegan: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free yogurt, and non-dairy milk. Swap eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg, rested 5 min).

• Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a Mexican chocolate twist.

• Orange Chocolate: Add 1 tablespoon grated orange zest to the batter for citrus fragrance.

Final Thoughts

Devil’s Food Cake is the ultimate chocolate dessert—rich, moist, and layered with a glossy, irresistible fudge frosting. This recipe is easy to master, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re honoring a family tradition or starting your own, each slice brings the perfect balance of nostalgia and decadence to any table. Enjoy baking, sharing, and indulging in this timeless treat!