Nana’s Devil’s Food Cake is a rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey classic that never fails to impress. Made with a blend of cocoa powder and strong coffee, this cake has an intense chocolate flavor with a soft, tender crumb. It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you’re craving a homemade chocolate dessert.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Calories: Approximately 360 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
Step 5: Add Hot Liquid
Stir in the hot water and cooled coffee. The batter will be thin, which is normal and helps create a moist cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
Tips for the Best Devil’s Food Cake
- Use hot coffee to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Enjoy your homemade Nana’s Devil’s Food Cake!