Rich, velvety, and undeniably decadent, the Nestlé Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake is a chocoholic’s dream come true. This cake is more than just dessert; it’s a show-stopping centerpiece for any gathering. Combining layers of intense chocolate flavor with the gooey, indulgent texture of a ganache glaze, this cake is designed to impress. In this article, we will explore the full journey of preparing this mouthwatering cake, from ingredients and steps to tips, calorie breakdown, and serving ideas—all stretched across a deliciously detailed 2000+ words.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cake
There are thousands of chocolate cakes in the world, but few deliver the richness and deep chocolate flavor like this Toll House-inspired recipe. With ingredients like chocolate pudding, brewed coffee, and a double dose of chocolate chips, it truly lives up to its dramatic name. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a dinner party, or simply treating yourself, this cake guarantees rave reviews.
Ingredients (US Measurements)
For the Cake:
- 1 box Devil’s Food cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 (3.9 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
- 5 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sour cream or buttermilk
- ¾ cup brewed coffee (cooled)
- 2 cups Nestlé Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Ganache Icing:
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ box (approximately 1¾ cups) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk (add more as needed for consistency)
- ½ cup pecan pieces (optional)
How to Prepare the Recipe (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a bundt cake pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. Use shortening or baking spray with flour for best results.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Devil’s Food cake mix and the chocolate pudding mix. Mixing these two dry ingredients ensures the base is evenly flavored and helps create a rich, moist crumb.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and sour cream (or buttermilk). Add the cooled brewed coffee. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a noticeable coffee taste.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk to blend until smooth and lump-free. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the dry mix.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula. This step adds bursts of melted chocolate throughout the cake, increasing the indulgence factor.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack or cake plate and allow it to cool completely before icing.
Step 8: Make the Ganache Icing
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth. Remove from heat and add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until the icing is glossy and pourable. If it’s too thick, add more milk one teaspoon at a time. Stir in pecans if using.
Step 9: Ice the Cake
Drizzle the warm ganache over the completely cooled cake. Let it set for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. For a glossy finish, you can glaze twice, allowing a few minutes between layers.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings and Calories
- Yield: Serves 12
- Calories: Approximately 533 kcal per serving (without toppings)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Note: Estimates may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes)
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 410mg
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Sugar: 45g
- Protein: 6g
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients: Eggs, sour cream, and coffee should all be at room temp for a smoother batter.
- Enhance the flavor: A dash of espresso powder can amplify the chocolate richness.
- Don’t overbake: Moisture is key. Check the cake a few minutes before the 45-minute mark.
- Try Greek yogurt: If you’re out of sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works wonderfully and adds protein.
- Freeze for later: This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil.
Serving Ideas
- A la mode: Top a warm slice with vanilla bean ice cream.
- With berries: Serve with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a tart contrast.
- Coffee pairing: Pairs perfectly with a cup of espresso or strong black coffee.
- Chocolate overload: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or drizzle with melted white chocolate for a layered chocolate experience.
Final Thoughts
This Nestlé Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake is the dessert you turn to when you’re looking to truly wow a crowd or indulge in the ultimate chocolate fantasy. With layers of texture and flavor, it’s the kind of cake that reminds you why desserts matter. Rich, bold, moist, and crowd-pleasing—it’s everything you want a chocolate cake to be and more.
So whether you’re baking for a special event or just treating yourself, go ahead—embrace the decadence. You’ve earned it.