Chocolate Mayonnaise Sheet Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever heard of a cake that’s rich, incredibly moist, and deceptively simple, then you’re going to want to stick around for this one. I promise you’ll be obsessed after trying this Chocolate Mayonnaise Sheet Cake Recipe. It’s one of those magical recipes that turns pantry staples into an unbelievably tender and flavorful chocolate cake. Seriously, the mayonnaise might sound like a curveball, but trust me—it’s the secret to moistness that lasts for days. Ready to dive in? Let’s bake!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This blend of pantry basics works harmoniously to create the deep chocolate flavor and super tender crumb you’ll love. The key here is how the mayonnaise replaces the usual butter or oil but keeps the cake so moist and tender.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the cake tender; be sure to spoon and level for accuracy.
• Unsweetened cocoa: Use a good-quality cocoa powder for the richest chocolate flavor.
• Baking soda: Makes the cake light and fluffy by helping it rise.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the chocolate.
• Table salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate notes.
• Baking powder: Helps give the cake a gentle lift for perfect texture.
• Shortening: Used to grease and flour the pan for easy cake release.
• Eggs: They add structure and help bind everything together.
• Light brown sugar: Packed firmly for moisture and that delicious caramel undertone.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the chocolate.
• Mayonnaise: Yes, mayonnaise! It’s the secret ingredient that keeps this cake ultra moist.
• Hot water: Helps dissolve the cocoa for a deep, rich color and flavor.

Variations

I love playing around with this Chocolate Mayonnaise Sheet Cake Recipe depending on the occasion. It’s so versatile! You can tweak it to suit different tastes or dietary needs without losing that signature moistness.

• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise: When I swapped mayo once for Greek yogurt to lighten it up, the cake stayed moist but gained a slightly tangier flavor—delicious if you’re into a bit of zest.
• Add espresso powder: I sometimes stir in a teaspoon of espresso powder to amplify the chocolate notes. Your chocolate fans will go nuts for the boosted richness.
• Gluten-free twist: I’ve successfully used a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check your flour’s packaging for substitution ratios.
• Frosting variations: Feel free to swap out the classic chocolate-cream cheese frosting for a simple chocolate ganache or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter finish.

How to Make Chocolate Mayonnaise Sheet Cake Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Dry Ingredients With Care

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. Then grab a medium bowl to whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. I love this step because it ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly spread, which helps the cake bake evenly and taste balanced.

Step 2: Prep Your Pan for Easy Cake Removal

I use shortening to grease and flour a 13- x 9-inch pan. This combo creates a non-stick barrier, so when your cake is baked to perfection, it slides right out without fuss. Pro tip: Don’t skip the flour step after greasing—it helps especially with moist cakes like this.

Step 3: Beat Eggs, Sugar, and Vanilla Until Heavenly

Using a heavy-duty electric mixer (stand or handheld), beat the eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla at medium-high speed for about 3 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture turn a light brown and form ribbons when the beater is lifted—that’s when you know you’ve incorporated enough air for a light cake. This was a game changer for me; I used to rush this part and ended with dense cakes.

Step 4: Incorporate Mayonnaise Smoothly

Add the mayonnaise and beat on low speed just until it’s mixed in. This is when the batter starts to look indulgently creamy and rich. I promise, no mayo taste sticks around—just incredible moistness.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Hot Water

Add the flour mixture and hot water alternately into the egg mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Keep mixing at low speed and stop as soon as everything is combined. This helps maintain that tender crumb. Overmixing could make the cake tough, so be gentle here.

Step 6: Bake and Cool Like a Pro

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Test doneness with a wooden pick inserted into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, never wet. Patience is key here; cool the cake completely on a wire rack before frosting so the frosting doesn’t melt and slide off.

How to Serve Chocolate Mayonnaise Sheet Cake Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it classic and spread a luscious chocolate-cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake, but I sometimes sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or flaky sea salt on top. It adds a nice crunch and a subtle savory contrast that my family always raves about.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of homemade whipped cream. When I’m serving it for a crowd, I love throwing out fresh berries on the side to brighten up the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthdays or special occasions, I’ve layered this cake with extra frosting and decorated with edible flowers or chocolate shavings. It’s simple but elegant—and people often ask if I bought it from a bakery!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and fresh. Refrigeration tends to dry out the cake unless it’s very warm weather.

Freezing

I’ve frozen slices wrapped in parchment and foil before with great success. To thaw, just place them in the fridge overnight or leave them at room temperature for a couple of hours—it tastes freshly baked every time.

Reheating

If you want a warm slice, reheat it gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. I recommend adding a tiny bit of frosting after warming for that just-baked feel.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Mayonnaise Sheet Cake Recipe is one of those kept-in-my-back-pocket recipes that never fails to impress. The moist texture and deep chocolate flavor always get compliments, and because it’s so easy to throw together, it’s perfect for any occasion, from last-minute gatherings to casual treats. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this cake as much as I do—it truly changed how I think about chocolate cake!

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