Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

Total Time

Prep: 15 min. Bake: 30 min. + cooling

Makes

12 servings

Updated: Nov. 28, 2023
Mom always made this special chocolate mayonnaise cake for my birthday dessert. It is very moist and has a nice light chocolate taste. Plus, the flavorful frosting is the perfect topping. —Deborah Amrine, Fort Myers, Florida

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons baking cocoa
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • BROWN SUGAR FROSTING:
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons 2% milk
  • 1-3/4 cups confectioners' sugar

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the water, mayonnaise and vanilla until well blended. In another large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa and baking soda; gradually beat into mayonnaise mixture until blended.
  2. Pour into a greased 9-in. square or 11x7-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 30-35 minutes. Cool completely.
  3. For frosting, in a small saucepan, cook and stir the brown sugar in butter until bubbly. Remove from the heat; stir in milk. Gradually add confectioners' sugar; beat until smooth. Frost cake.

Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake Tips

What does mayonnaise do to a cake?

Mayonnaise can be used in place of fat or oil in cake recipes. It adds moisture, richness and flavor. And don't worry, you won't taste the mayo!

Are there any alternatives to brown sugar frosting?

Brown sugar adds depth of flavor due to its molasses profile, however you can try other homemade frosting recipes using confectioners' sugar, like this easy vanilla buttercream. Or simply use prepared frosting as a shortcut!

How do you store chocolate mayo cake?

With any cake, its important to make sure it's covered and airtight, as it helps retain moistness and freshness. A covered cake plate, cake box or plastic wrap does the trick. Some may choose to refrigerate, but it's not necessary. You can also freeze cake for longer periods of time. Unfrosted cake can last for up to two months in the freezer.

Nutrition Facts

1 piece: 416 calories, 19g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 354mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (42g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.