May 19th is a day dessert lovers can truly rejoice—it’s National Devil’s Food Cake Day! This special day is dedicated to celebrating a chocolate cake that’s not just any ordinary dessert. Known for its rich, moist texture and intense chocolate flavor, Devil’s Food Cake stands out as a beloved treat for chocolate enthusiasts everywhere.

Unlike your typical chocolate cake, Devil’s Food Cake boasts a darker color and a deeper, more intense chocolate taste. Its secret lies in the ingredients: often made with cocoa powder, hot water, or coffee instead of milk, this cake achieves a unique, velvety richness that sets it apart. The result is a dessert that’s not just a cake but an indulgent experience—a heavenly slice of pure chocolate bliss.

National Devil’s Food Cake Day is more than just a nod to a delicious dessert; it’s a celebration of life’s sweeter moments. This day encourages everyone to pause and savor the joy of indulging in something truly decadent. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or simply a cake lover, this day is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life that bring us together—like sharing a slice of cake with friends and family.

The origins of Devil’s Food Cake trace back to the United States in the early 20th century. The term “devil’s food” first appeared in 1905, describing a cake with a bolder, more intense chocolate flavor than other chocolate cakes of the time. This deeper, richer cake quickly became a favorite for its indulgent taste and distinctive look.

But why dedicate an entire day to this cake? It’s about more than just the cake itself—it’s about celebrating chocolate in one of its most delightful forms. Devil’s Food Cake is often made with coffee or boiling water, which intensifies its rich chocolate flavor, making it a standout dessert. By setting aside a day to honor it, we acknowledge the joy and comfort that a simple piece of cake can bring into our lives.

How to Celebrate National Devil’s Food Cake Day

• Bake a Masterpiece: Challenge yourself to bake your own Devil’s Food Cake. It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase your baking skills and fill your kitchen with the divine aroma of chocolate. Don’t worry about perfection; it’s all about the fun and indulgence.
• Cake Swap Party: Host a cake swap with friends and family. Everyone bakes their version of Devil’s Food Cake and swaps slices. It’s a delicious way to explore different recipes and taste the unique variations of this chocolatey delight.
• Chocolate Dress-Up: Get creative with your cake by adding a twist. Try infusing your Devil’s Food Cake with flavors like spicy chili, espresso, or orange zest. These unexpected additions can elevate the classic cake into something extraordinary and might even become your new favorite!
• Share the Joy: Spread happiness by sharing slices of cake with neighbors, friends, or coworkers. It’s a sweet way to brighten someone’s day and introduce them to the joys of National Devil’s Food Cake Day.

This day is more than just a reason to eat cake—it’s about celebrating a piece of culinary history and the joy that this decadent dessert brings. Devil’s Food Cake, with its rich, indulgent flavor, reminds us of the little pleasures that make life sweet. So, on May 19th, let’s honor this tradition of indulgence, bake a cake, share a slice, and savor the simple, delicious moments that bring us all together.

Happy National Devil’s Food Cake Day! ??

Classic Devil’s Food Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water or hot coffee (for a richer chocolate flavor)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper circles.
• In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• In another large bowl, beat the sugar and eggs together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix until well combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
• Carefully stir in the boiling water or hot coffee. The batter will be thin, but this is normal for Devil’s Food Cake.

2. Bake the Cake:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

3. Make the Frosting:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined.
• Increase the speed to medium and add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

4. Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
• Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top.
• Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
• For a finishing touch, garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries, if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Slice the cake and serve with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee. Enjoy the rich, moist texture and deep chocolate flavor that make Devil’s Food Cake so irresistible!

Tips:

• Using hot coffee instead of boiling water enhances the chocolate flavor, but plain water works well too.
• Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer storage.

Enjoy your homemade Devil’s Food Cake!