portillo's chocolate cake
Discover how to make the famous Portillo’s chocolate cake at home with this easy, delicious recipe. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 1 box devil’s food cake mix this will be the base of your cake and provide that rich, chocolatey flavor
- 1 cup water helps to thin the batter and create a light texture
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil adds moisture and ensures the cake stays soft
- 3 large eggs these bind the ingredients together and give structure to the cake
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise trust me, this is the secret ingredient for that ultra-moist, fudgy texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds a subtle, aromatic sweetness to balance the chocolate
- For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened (for a rich, creamy base)
- 1/4 cup whole milk adds smoothness and consistency
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder gives the frosting its deep chocolate flavor
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the frosting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to bring everything together with a touch of flavor
- Optional Garnishes:
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles for a festive touch
- A drizzle of caramel sauce or fresh berries for added richness and visual appeal
- These ingredients are what make this cake so special. The mayonnaise and Devil’s Food Cake mix work together to create that signature moist fudgy texture that everyone loves. Don’t skip the vanilla extract—it truly enhances the chocolate flavor and gives the cake a balanced sweetness.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and turns out perfectly.
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. A light dusting of flour over the greased pans helps ensure the cakes come out smoothly once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat them together with a hand mixer or whisk until everything is well combined.
- Now, add in the mayonnaise and vanilla extract. Mix again until smooth. This creamy combination is the secret to achieving that ultra-moist, fudgy texture.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
- Gradually add the devil’s food cake mix to the wet ingredients. Stir the mixture until it’s just combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a denser texture, so mix until there are no dry spots, and the batter is smooth.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Tap the pans gently on the counter to release any air bubbles and level the batter.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cakes—oven temperatures can vary slightly, so check at the 30-minute mark.
Step 5: Cool the Cakes
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This allows the cakes to set and makes it easier to remove them.
- After 10 minutes, carefully turn the cakes out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is key for a flawless frosting application.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
- While your cakes are cooling, you can prepare the chocolate frosting. In a medium bowl, combine the butter, cocoa powder, and milk. Beat together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the frosting is thick, spreadable, and fluffy. Adjust the consistency by adding a bit more milk if it’s too thick or a bit more powdered sugar if it’s too thin.
Step 7: Assemble and Frost
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second layer of cake and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting. Smooth it out with a spatula for a professional finish.
Notes
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 375
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 200mg