Illustration of a smiling grandma in a chef hat and apron, holding a wooden spoon, with the text GrandmaRecipe.com below her.Search

dessert

Moist Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

By Grandma Millie

Be the first to rate this recipe

A slice of Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake on a plate, showcasing its moist texture and rich chocolate color.

Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is a rich, ultra-moist dessert made with creamy mayonnaise instead of butter or eggs for an irresistibly tender crumb. Deep cocoa flavor shines with a touch of vanilla and a hint of coffee to enhance the chocolate without overpowering it. Easy to mix with simple pantry staples, Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake delivers bold flavor, soft texture, and nostalgic comfort in every slice, making it perfect for quick celebrations or cozy homemade treats.

Prep: 15 mins
Cook: 35 mins
Total: 1 hr
Serves: 12 servings
Calories: 350

Recipe card

Print / PDF

Moist Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

Rate this recipe

Be the first to rate

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
35 mins
resting
10 mins
Total Time
1 hr
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (for the base of the cake)
  • 1¾ cups granulated sugar (to sweeten the cake)
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for rich chocolate flavor)
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (provides moisture and richness)
  • 1 cup water (to combine ingredients)
  • 2 large eggs (for binding and structure)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (adds depth of flavor)
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda (to help the cake rise)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)

Equipment

  • 1 9×13-inch baking panFor baking the cake
  • 1 Large mixing bowlFor mixing ingredients
  • 1 whiskFor combining dry ingredients

Method

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.

  2. 2

    Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. This will help your cake slide out easily once it's baked.

  3. 3

    In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined for a uniform flavor.

  4. 4

    Add mayonnaise, water, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and fully combined. Don’t worry, the mayonnaise makes it super moist!

  5. 5

    Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. It’s okay if it looks a little lumpy; it will bake beautifully!

  6. 6

    Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

  7. 7

    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Patience is key for that perfect slice!

Notes

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories350
Fat15g
Protein5g
Carbs50g
Sugar30g

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

  • It’s incredibly moist and rich, thanks to the mayonnaise.
  • No butter needed, making it a lighter option.
  • Quick and easy to whip up with pantry staples.
  • Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual get-togethers.
  • Deliciously chocolatey, satisfying every sweet tooth!

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to whip up a delicious Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake!

Ingredients for Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake arranged on a kitchen table, including flour, sugar, cocoa powder, mayonnaise, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour – for the base of the cake
  • 1¾ cups granulated sugar – to sweeten the cake
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – for rich chocolate flavor
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda – to help the cake rise
  • ½ teaspoon salt – enhances flavor
  • 1 cup mayonnaise – provides moisture and richness
  • 1 cup water – to combine ingredients
  • 2 large eggs – for binding and structure
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – adds depth of flavor

How to Make Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

This delightful Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly moist and rich. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30–35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time. Allow it to cool for a bit before serving, and you’ll be in chocolate heaven!

Four-step process of making Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake, showing preheating oven, prepared baking pan, mixed dry ingredients, and combined wet ingredients.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. This will help your cake slide out easily once it’s baked.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined for a uniform flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add mayonnaise, water, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and fully combined. Don’t worry, the mayonnaise makes it super moist!

Step 5: Pour the Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. It’s okay if it looks a little lumpy; it will bake beautifully!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Patience is key for that perfect slice!

Recipe Snapshot

FeatureDetails
CategoryDessert
CuisineAmerican
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Extra Time10 minutes (resting)
Total Time60 minutes
DietaryVegetarian
Serves12
Best ServedWith a dusting of powdered sugar or frosting!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

  • Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
  • Let the mayonnaise come to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined.
  • For added moisture, consider adding a splash of brewed coffee.
  • Cool the cake completely before frosting for the best results.

How to Serve this Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

  • Dust with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant touch.
  • Top with fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.
  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
  • Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for extra indulgence.
  • Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a classic finish.
  • Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
  • Slice and serve with a side of fruit salad for a refreshing balance.

Make Ahead and Storage

You can make this cake ahead and store it easily:

Storing Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake Leftovers

  • Allow the cake to cool completely.
  • Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

  • Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
  • Label with the date and type of cake.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
  • Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the cake on a baking sheet.
  • Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying.
  • Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, tasty snacks, and delightful dessert.

Final Thoughts

Get ready to indulge in a slice of nostalgia with this delightful Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, and the moist, rich flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and enjoy the simple joy of creating something delicious. Happy baking!

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Straight answers from the kitchen — storage, swaps, and common sticking points for this recipe.

What does adding mayonnaise to a cake do?
Adding mayonnaise to a cake provides moisture and richness, thanks to its oil and egg content. This results in a tender crumb and a deliciously moist cake without the need for additional butter. It’s a fantastic way to enhance the texture and flavor of your Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake!
Which is the most delicious cake in the world?
While taste is subjective, many people rave about chocolate cakes, especially rich ones like the Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake. Its unique combination of flavors and moist texture often makes it a favorite among chocolate lovers!
What was Julia Child’s favorite cake?
Julia Child was known for her love of classic French desserts, and one of her favorites was the Genoise cake. However, she also appreciated a good chocolate cake, and her recipes often included rich, decadent options that showcased her passion for baking!
Does a chocolate mayonnaise cake need to be refrigerated?
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake can be stored at room temperature for a few days, covered to keep it fresh. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!

Kitchen notes

Nutrition & sources

Calorie and nutrition figures on this page are estimates meant for general home-cooking guidance. Actual values vary with brands, portion size, and how the recipe is prepared.

Estimates draw on typical ingredient data from public nutrition databases such as the USDA FoodData Central. They are not a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice.

For how recipes are tested and when pages are updated, see How we test recipes. Full legal context lives in our disclaimers and affiliate disclosure.

Comments

Made this recipe? Share how it turned out for your family.

No comments yet — be the first to leave a note.

More to cook

Related Dessert recipes

More cozy favorites from the same kitchen shelf.

Browse all dessert
A plate of golden-brown fruit pastries filled with mixed fruits, garnished with sugar.

dessert

Fruit Pastry

Fruit pastry shines with golden, flaky layers wrapped around a colorful mix of ripe berries and tender fruit slices. Sweet strawberries, tart raspberries, and juicy peaches blend with a touch of vanilla and a splash of fresh orange juice for a filling that’s vibrant and naturally sweet. As it bakes, the buttery crust turns crisp and fragrant, filling your kitchen with warm, bakery-style aromas. Simple to prepare just roll, fill, and bake this easy fresh fruit pastry is perfect for brunch spreads, afternoon treats, or last-minute desserts. Every slice delivers bright fruit flavor, delicate crunch, and pure homemade comfort.

Continue reading →

A star-shaped cake on a white stand, decorated with colorful sprinkles.

dessert

Star Cake

Star cake brings a touch of magic to any dessert table with its soft vanilla crumb and bright hint of lemon zest. Fresh from the oven, star cake fills the kitchen with warm, sweet aromas that draw everyone in for a slice. A swirl of smooth buttercream frosting adds creamy richness, while the light, moist texture makes each bite feel special. Perfect for celebrations or simple family moments, star cake is an easy yet eye-catching treat that turns everyday baking into something memorable.

Continue reading →

A two-layer chocolate coconut cake with chocolate frosting and shredded coconut on top, set on a wooden table.

dessert

Chocolate Coconut Cake

Chocolate coconut cake combines rich chocolate flavor with the light, tropical sweetness of coconut in one irresistibly moist dessert. Tender cake layers made with coconut milk create a soft texture, while a smooth chocolate frosting adds deep, indulgent flavor. A sprinkle of coconut flakes on top brings gentle crunch and extra coconut aroma, balanced by warm notes of vanilla. Simple ingredients and easy steps make chocolate coconut cake perfect for celebrations or everyday treats when you want something comforting, flavorful, and a little special.

Continue reading →