Name: Irresistible Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 box Devil’s Food cake mix (Alternative: Regular chocolate cake mix.); 3.9 oz Instant chocolate pudding mix (Adds moisture and density.); 5 large eggs (Use room temperature for better incorporation.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Opt for pure for best taste.); 3/4 cup vegetable oil (Can substitute with melted butter for richer flavor.); 1 cup sour cream or buttermilk (Both can be interchanged.); 3/4 cup brewed coffee (Substitute with water or milk if necessary.); 2 cups Nestle Toll House chocolate chips (Semi-sweet or dark options may be used.); 1/2 cup salted butter (Unsalted butter can be used; add a pinch of salt.); 2 tbsp cocoa powder (Choose unsweetened for best results.); 2 cups powdered sugar (Sifting eliminates lumps for a smoother icing.); 1 tsp vanilla extract (Use pure extract for maximum flavor.); 3 tbsp milk (Use heavy cream for a richer ganache.); 1/2 cup pecan pieces (Can be omitted for a nut-free version.)

“Why settle for mundane when you can savor the extraordinary?” That’s the mantra I chanted as I first discovered the Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake. This scrumptious creation isn’t just a cake; it’s a chocolate lover’s fantasy come to life. With its rich layers and gooey ganache, each bite is a luxurious experience. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up — perfect for those spontaneous dessert cravings or the weekends you want to impress your loved ones. This decadent dessert strikes a perfect balance between delightful indulgence and comfort food nostalgia, making it the ultimate addition to any gathering. Ready to dive into chocolate heaven? Let’s get started!

Why is this cake a must-try?

Decadent Layers: The Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake features rich chocolate layers filled with gooey ganache, guaranteeing a blissful chocolate experience in every bite.
Simplicity: Easy to make, this recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Serving: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or serve it as an impressive centerpiece at your next gathering.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This cake is a sure-fire way to bring smiles, fitting for any occasion—from birthday parties to holiday celebrations.
Time-Saving: With simple ingredients and quick prep time, you’ll find yourself stunning your guests effortlessly, making sure you’ll want to try out more delightful recipes like Mini Pancake Muffins.

Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Devil’s Food cake mix – Base for a rich chocolate flavor. Alternative: Regular chocolate cake mix.
Instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 oz) – Adds moisture and density. Essential for texture.
Large eggs (5) – Provides structure and stability. Use room temperature for better incorporation.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor profile. No substitute needed; opt for pure for best taste.
Vegetable oil (3/4 cup) – Contributes moisture and tenderness. Can substitute with melted butter for richer flavor.
Sour cream or buttermilk (1 cup) – Adds tang and moisture. Both can be interchanged.
Brewed coffee (3/4 cup) – Intensifies chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste. Substitute with water or milk if necessary.
Nestle Toll House chocolate chips (2 cups) – Provides melty pockets of chocolate goodness. Semi-sweet or dark options may be used.

For the Ganache

Salted butter (1/2 cup) – For the ganache icing, adds a creamy texture. Unsalted butter can be used; add a pinch of salt.
Cocoa powder (2 tbsp) – Enhances the chocolate flavor in ganache. Choose unsweetened for best results.
Powdered sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens the ganache. Sifting eliminates lumps for a smoother icing.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) for ganache – Adds sweetness to the chocolate taste. Use pure extract for maximum flavor.
Milk (3 tbsp) – Adjusts ganache consistency. Use heavy cream for a richer ganache.

Optional Topping

Pecan pieces (1/2 cup) – Optional garnish for crunch. Can be omitted for a nut-free version.

Dive right into creating this decadent delight, and let the Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake enchant your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, generously grease a bundt pan with butter or a non-stick spray to ensure your cake releases smoothly once baked. This crucial step sets the foundation for a beautifully moist Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake that won’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Devil’s Food cake mix and the instant chocolate pudding mix, whisking them together until evenly blended. The mixing should only take a minute; the goal here is to create that rich chocolate base that will give your cake its decadent flavor. Be sure to break up any clumps for a smoother batter later on.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring in the wet ingredients! Add five large eggs, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, three-quarters cup of vegetable oil, one cup of sour cream (or buttermilk), and three-quarters cup of brewed coffee to the dry mixture. Mix everything together on medium speed until the batter is smooth and creamy, about two minutes. This is where the magic starts to happen, transforming dry ingredients into a luscious cake batter.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the two cups of Nestle Toll House chocolate chips to the batter using a spatula. This step is essential for creating those delightful pockets of chocolate throughout the cake. Fold carefully to maintain the lightness of the batter; you want to distribute the chips evenly without over-mixing, which could make the cake dense.

Step 5: Bake
Pour the rich batter into your prepared bundt pan, ensuring it is evenly spread out. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that perfect gooey texture unique to the Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake.

Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the bundt pan from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the cake to set before flipping it. Place a large plate over the top of the bundt pan, and carefully invert it to release the cake onto the plate. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack while you prepare the ganache.

Step 7: Make Ganache
In a saucepan over low heat, melt half a cup of salted butter. Once melted, stir in two tablespoons of cocoa powder and two cups of powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth. Gradually add three tablespoons of milk and one teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the ganache becomes glossy. This decadent ganache will coat the cake beautifully and enhance its richness.

Step 8: Decorate
Once the cake has cooled completely, pour the luscious ganache generously over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for a visually stunning effect. The indulgent chocolate sweetness will create an irresistible exterior, making your Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake look as good as it tastes.

Step 9: Serve
Slice your cake while it’s still slightly warm for the ultimate dessert experience. Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor, creating a delightful contrast. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, ensuring every bite of your Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake is met with smiles!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake in advance is a game changer for your busy weeknights! You can mix the wet and dry ingredients separately up to 24 hours ahead. Simply store the wet mixture in the refrigerator and the dry ingredients at room temperature in an airtight container. To maintain quality, remember to bring the wet ingredients back to room temperature before mixing them together and baking. When you’re ready to enjoy this decadent cake, bake it straight away, and top it with ganache once it’s completely cooled. With these easy make-ahead steps, you’ll have a stunning dessert with minimal effort!

Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this cake to match your taste buds and dietary needs!

Flavored Cake Mix: Use red velvet or caramel cake mix for a delightful twist that surprises your guests.
Nutty Delight: Swap out pecans for crunchy walnuts or slivered almonds to add a different texture and flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free version to ensure everyone can enjoy this rich dessert.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace sour cream with almond or coconut yogurt and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a delicious vegan twist.
Mocha Infusion: For coffee lovers, add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the cake mix to enhance the chocolate flavor, creating a coffee-chocolate harmony.
Extra Chocolate: Boost the chocolate experience by adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers, turning it into a chocolate lover’s paradise.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate fresh raspberries or cherries into the batter for bursts of fruity goodness that cut through the richness.
Ice Cream Surprise: Serve individual slices with a scoop of your favorite ice cream, like Mango Coconut Cheesecake or vanilla, to create a decadent dessert experience.

Experiment with these variations to make your Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake a true reflection of your culinary spirit!

What to Serve with Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake

Pairing delightful sides and drinks can transform your decadent dessert into an unforgettable meal experience.

Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture of ice cream complements the warm cake beautifully, creating a pleasing contrast.
Fresh Berries Salad: A medley of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a refreshing, tart balance to the rich chocolate taste.
Whipped Cream: Fluffy whipped cream adds a lightness and can be sweetened or flavored to enhance your dessert’s indulgence.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut over the ganache for a crunchy texture and tropical flair that enhances your chocolate cake.
Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of espresso brings out the chocolate’s flavor while the bitterness cuts through the sweetness, creating harmony.
Chocolate-covered Strawberries: Elevate your dessert experience by pairing with chocolate-covered strawberries—an indulgent chocolate match made in heaven!

Pairing these delicious elements can elevate the already delightful Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake into an extraordinary dining experience that guests will remember!

How to Store and Freeze Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. This maintains its moistness while providing easy access for a sweet snack any time of the day.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to enjoy, simply let it come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: For the best experience, warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This enhances the gooeyness and allows the flavors of the Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake to shine through.

Expert Tips for Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and dairy helps create a smooth batter, ensuring even mixing and a light texture in your cake.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to prevent a dense cake; overmixing can lead to gummy or tough results.
Check Doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs to indicate the cake is fully baked.
Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan to prevent it from breaking when inverting onto the plate, ensuring a perfect presentation.
Gooey Ganache: Warm your slices of Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake before serving for that delightful, gooey texture that enhances the experience.

Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate cake mix should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using Devil’s Food cake mix for a rich chocolate flavor, but regular chocolate cake mix works just as well if that’s what you have on hand.

How should I store the Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, letting it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your cake hasn’t risen as expected, check that your baking powder or instant pudding mix is still fresh, as stale ingredients can impact the lift. Also, avoid overmixing the batter—mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Certainly! Simply omit the optional pecan pieces in the ganache for a nut-free version. If you’re serving guests with allergies, it’s always a good idea to double-check the ingredients of your chocolate chips, as some brands may contain traces of nuts.

What should I serve with the Nestle Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake?
I often enjoy it warm, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate. The cool creaminess helps balance the cake’s decadence beautifully!