Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake might sound unusual, but it’s a time-tested secret for making ultra-moist, rich, and velvety chocolate cake. Using mayonnaise instead of butter or oil creates a smooth, tender crumb without an overpowering taste.
This classic recipe dates back to the Great Depression, when people had to get creative with ingredients. Today, it remains a favorite for home bakers looking for an easy, foolproof chocolate cake.
In this article, we’ll explore why mayo works in cake, the best recipes, and expert baking tips to get the perfect texture every time.
Why Put Mayonnaise in Chocolate Cake?
How Mayonnaise Makes Cake Moist
Mayonnaise is made from eggs, oil, and vinegar—three ingredients commonly used in baking. When added to chocolate cake batter, it provides:
✔ Extra moisture – Keeps the cake from drying out.
✔ A rich texture – Gives a smooth, tender crumb.
✔ Balanced flavor – The vinegar enhances the chocolate taste.
Unlike butter or oil, mayonnaise blends smoothly into the batter, creating a silky, even consistency.
The Science Behind Mayo in Baking
The key ingredients in mayonnaise each play a role in baking:
✔ Eggs – Add structure and help bind the ingredients.
✔ Oil – Provides moisture and prevents dryness.
✔ Vinegar – Reacts with baking soda to create a light, airy texture.
👉 Want another classic dessert? Try this Ultimate Chocolate Cake Recipe for a different take on a rich chocolate treat!
Classic Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake Recipe
This rich and moist chocolate mayonnaise cake is incredibly easy to make. With no butter or oil, the mayonnaise provides all the moisture and tenderness needed for the perfect texture.
Ingredients for the Perfect Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best results)
- 1 cup water or brewed coffee (enhances the chocolate flavor)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
- Stir in mayonnaise, water (or coffee), and vanilla extract.
- Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined (do not overmix).
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Making the Chocolate Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract, then mix.
- Gradually add heavy cream until the frosting reaches a creamy consistency.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and enjoy!
✔ Pro Tip: For an extra chocolatey flavor, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosting before serving.
More Chocolate Dessert Inspiration
If you love chocolate cakes, don’t miss this Ultimate Chocolate Cake Recipe for another rich and decadent treat!
Can You Use Mayonnaise Instead of Oil in Box Cake Mix?
If you’re using a boxed cake mix but want to make it extra moist and rich, you might wonder: Can you substitute mayonnaise for oil? The answer is yes! Mayonnaise works perfectly as a replacement for oil, adding moisture, richness, and a velvety texture to your cake.
How to Substitute Mayo for Oil in a Cake Mix
To replace oil with mayonnaise, follow this simple ratio:
✔ Use 1 cup of mayonnaise for every ¾ cup of oil.
✔ For eggs: Keep them in the recipe unless the box mix calls for only one egg—then you can skip it.
✔ For water: No changes needed; follow the amount on the box.
👉 Example for a standard box cake mix:
- Box cake mix (any brand)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (instead of oil)
- 3 eggs (or follow box instructions)
- Water (as directed on the box)
✔ Pro Tip: Use full-fat mayonnaise for the best texture and richness.
Does It Change the Taste?
No! Mayonnaise does not make the cake taste like mayo. Instead, it enhances the chocolate flavor while keeping the cake soft and moist. The vinegar in mayo actually boosts the chocolate intensity without making the cake sour.
✔ Texture Difference:
- With Oil: Light and airy but can dry out quickly.
- With Mayonnaise: More dense, rich, and incredibly moist.
More Cake Inspiration!
If you love unique chocolate cake recipes, check out this Ultimate Chocolate Cake Recipe for another decadent dessert idea!
The History of Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake has been a beloved dessert for generations, but many people don’t know its fascinating history. This cake originated during tough economic times, when people had to get creative with ingredients.
Origins During the Great Depression
The first versions of Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake appeared during the Great Depression (1929–1939). During this time, ingredients like butter, milk, and eggs were expensive or hard to find. Home bakers needed an alternative, and mayonnaise became the perfect substitute for butter and eggs in cake recipes.
✔ Why Mayonnaise?
- It was affordable – Mayonnaise was cheaper than butter.
- It was shelf-stable – Unlike fresh dairy, mayo lasted longer in pantries.
- It made cakes moist – The oil, eggs, and vinegar in mayonnaise helped create a tender, fluffy texture.
During World War II (1939–1945), when food rationing was common, Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake remained popular because it used readily available pantry ingredients.
How It Became a Popular Recipe
✔ 1940s–1950s: The recipe started appearing in community cookbooks and newspaper ads, often promoted by Hellmann’s and Best Foods mayonnaise brands.
✔ 1960s–1980s: Bakeries and home cooks continued making Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake as a nostalgic treat.
✔ Today: This cake is still a favorite for home bakers, especially those who love moist, old-fashioned chocolate cakes.
👉 Looking for another classic dessert? Try this Ultimate Chocolate Cake Recipe for another rich and decadent option!
Why Is It Called Crazy Cake?
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is sometimes called “Crazy Cake”, but are they the same thing? While these two recipes share similarities, they have slightly different origins and ingredient lists. Let’s break it down!
The Connection Between Crazy Cake & Mayonnaise Cake
✔ Crazy Cake (also known as Depression Cake or Wacky Cake) was another Great Depression-era dessert that used no eggs, butter, or milk. Instead, it relied on:
- Oil for moisture
- Vinegar and baking soda for leavening
- Water instead of milk
✔ Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is similar but replaces oil with mayonnaise, making it even richer and more moist.
Both cakes were created during economic hardships, when bakers had to find substitutes for expensive ingredients. That’s why people often confuse the two desserts!
Other Names for This Recipe
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake has been called different names over the years, including:
✔ Wacky Cake – Because it doesn’t use traditional ingredients like butter or milk.
✔ Miracle Whip Cake – Some versions use Miracle Whip instead of regular mayo.
✔ Eggless Chocolate Cake – Since mayonnaise already contains eggs, no extra eggs are needed.
No matter what you call it, this old-fashioned cake is a delicious, moist chocolate dessert that has stood the test of time!
👉 Want another rich and nostalgic treat? Try this Ultimate Chocolate Cake Recipe for a decadent twist on a classic favorite!
How Much Mayo to Add to Chocolate Cake Mix?
If you want to enhance the moisture and richness of your chocolate cake, adding mayonnaise is a game-changer. But how much should you use? The answer depends on whether you’re making a homemade cake or using a box mix.
Exact Measurements for Homemade & Box Cake Mixes
✔ For Homemade Chocolate Cake:
- Replace butter or oil with 1 cup of mayonnaise per 2 cups of flour.
- No need to add extra eggs since mayo already contains them.
✔ For Boxed Cake Mix:
- Substitute 1 cup mayonnaise for every ¾ cup of oil called for in the recipe.
- Keep the water and eggs as directed (unless the box calls for just one egg—then you can skip it).
📌 Quick Mayo Substitution Guide:
| Cake Mix Calls For | Use This Much Mayo Instead |
|---|---|
| ½ cup oil | ⅔ cup mayo |
| ¾ cup oil | 1 cup mayo |
| 1 cup oil | 1 ¼ cups mayo |
✔ Pro Tip: Full-fat mayonnaise works best for a rich, velvety texture!
Tips for Adjusting Texture & Flavor
- For a lighter cake: Use ¾ cup mayonnaise instead of a full cup.
- For extra chocolate flavor: Replace water with brewed coffee.
- For a fluffier texture: Beat the batter for 1-2 extra minutes to incorporate more air.
👉 Love moist, fluffy desserts? Try this Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe for a light and refreshing treat!
Frosting & Toppings for Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
A rich and moist Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake deserves the perfect frosting and toppings to enhance its flavor and presentation. Whether you love classic chocolate frosting, a creamy vanilla contrast, or a unique twist, we’ve got delicious ideas for you!
Best Frostings for Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
✔ Classic Chocolate Buttercream – A smooth, rich frosting that enhances the deep chocolate flavor.
✔ Cream Cheese Frosting – Adds a slightly tangy contrast to balance the sweetness.
✔ Whipped Chocolate Ganache – Silky and decadent, perfect for special occasions.
✔ Peanut Butter Frosting – A nutty, creamy addition for chocolate-peanut butter lovers.
Chocolate Buttercream Frosting Recipe
This classic frosting pairs beautifully with the moist, rich texture of Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup heavy cream (adjust for consistency)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a bowl, beat butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract, then mix.
- Slowly add heavy cream, whipping until fluffy and spreadable.
- Spread over cooled cake and enjoy!
✔ Pro Tip: Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Delicious Topping Ideas
✔ Chocolate Shavings – A simple yet elegant touch.
✔ Fresh Berries – Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add natural sweetness.
✔ Chopped Nuts – Walnuts or almonds provide a satisfying crunch.
✔ Caramel or Chocolate Drizzle – For an extra indulgent bite.
✔ Whipped Cream & Cocoa Powder Dusting – Light and fluffy for a bakery-style finish.
👉 Want another decadent dessert? Try this Ultimate Chocolate Cake Recipe for a rich and fudgy option!
Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
Baking the perfect Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is easy, but using a few expert tips can make it even more moist, fluffy, and flavorful. Follow these pro secrets to take your cake to the next level!
How to Prevent a Dense Cake
✔ Use Room-Temperature Ingredients – Mayonnaise, eggs (if using), and liquids should be room temperature for a smooth batter.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir until just combined to avoid a tough, dense cake.
✔ Sift the Dry Ingredients – This helps incorporate air, making the cake lighter and fluffier.
✔ Use Fresh Baking Soda & Powder – Expired leavening agents won’t give the cake enough rise.
✔ Pro Tip: Want an even moister cake? Replace water with brewed coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor!
Storage & Freezing Tips
Storing at Room Temperature:
- Keep the cake covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerating:
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing:
- Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.
👉 Looking for another classic dessert? Try this Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe for a light and refreshing option!
FAQs on Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
Got questions about Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake? You’re not alone! Here are answers to some of the most common baking questions about this delicious and unique dessert.
Why Put Mayonnaise in Chocolate Cake?
Mayonnaise replaces butter or oil to make the cake extra moist, rich, and tender. Since mayonnaise contains eggs, oil, and vinegar, it acts as a perfect baking ingredient that enhances both texture and flavor.
✔ Benefits of Mayo in Cake:
Adds moisture without making the cake greasy.
Creates a tender crumb for a soft texture.
Enhances chocolate flavor thanks to the vinegar in mayo.
Can You Use Mayonnaise Instead of Oil in a Box Cake Mix?
Yes! Mayonnaise is a great substitute for oil in a boxed cake mix.
✔ How to Swap Mayo for Oil:
Replace ¾ cup of oil with 1 cup of mayonnaise.
Keep the eggs and water as listed in the instructions.
Mayonnaise makes the cake denser, richer, and even more moist without altering the taste.
👉 Want another amazing chocolate cake recipe? Try this Ultimate Chocolate Cake Recipe for a fudgy and decadent treat!
What Is the History of Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake?
This cake was invented during the Great Depression (1929–1939) when ingredients like butter, milk, and eggs were scarce. Home bakers used mayonnaise as a substitute, and the recipe became hugely popular.
✔ Why It Became a Classic:
Mayonnaise was affordable and shelf-stable.
It made cakes super moist and fluffy.
Big brands like Hellmann’s and Best Foods promoted it in the 1940s and 1950s.
Why Is It Called Crazy Cake?
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is often confused with Crazy Cake (or Wacky Cake), another Depression-era dessert.
✔ Key Differences:
Crazy Cake uses no eggs, milk, or butter (relies on oil and vinegar).
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake replaces butter and eggs with mayo.
Both cakes were created due to ingredient shortages, making them popular during tough times.
How Much Mayo Should You Add to Chocolate Cake Mix?
For Homemade Chocolate Cake: Use 1 cup mayonnaise per 2 cups of flour.
✔ For Boxed Cake Mix: Replace ¾ cup oil with 1 cup mayonnaise.
📌 Quick Mayo Substitution Guide:
Cake Mix Calls For
½ cup oil
¾ cup oil
1 cup oil
Use This Much Mayo Instead
⅔ cup mayo
1 cup mayo
1 ¼ cups mayo
✔ Pro Tip: Full-fat mayonnaise works best for the richest, most tender cake!
Why do you put evaporated milk in a cake?
Evaporated milk makes cakes richer, creamier, and extra moist by adding a thicker texture without excess liquid. Its subtle caramelized flavor enhances taste, making desserts more indulgent. It helps cakes stay fresh longer by retaining moisture. Use it as a milk substitute for a soft, tender crumb. Ideal for chocolate, vanilla, and tres leches cakes. A secret ingredient for better baking results!
👉 Looking for a lighter dessert? Try this Strawberry Chia Pudding Recipe for a healthy and refreshing option!
What is in pineapple upside down cake?
Pineapple upside-down cake features a caramelized topping of brown sugar, butter, pineapple slices, and cherries over a moist vanilla cake. The batter, made with flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, is poured over the fruit and baked. Once flipped, the golden pineapple topping creates a sweet, tangy, and buttery dessert. Perfect for any occasion! 🍍🍰
Conclusion
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is a moist, rich, and easy-to-make dessert that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re baking from scratch or using a box mix, mayonnaise is the secret ingredient for a perfectly soft and flavorful cake.
With classic chocolate buttercream, delicious toppings, and expert baking tips, you can enjoy this old-fashioned favorite like never before!
Looking for more baking inspiration? Check out these recipes:
✔ Ultimate Chocolate Cake Recipe – Another must-try chocolate dessert!
✔ Baked Chicken Cutlet Recipe – A savory meal to balance out the sweetness.
✔ Golden Corral Baked Chicken Recipe – Perfect for comfort food lovers.
Enjoy baking your Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake, and happy indulging!