What makes the perfect chocolate cake truly irresistible? Rich, velvety chocolate and a moist homemade texture are just the beginning. This easy dessert recipe features Nestle chocolate and a simple mixing method, making it a family favorite. Save this idea for a decadent treat to satisfy any sweet tooth, try it soon and enjoy every bite.

Nestle’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake

Introduction

Indulge in the richness of chocolate with Nestle’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake, a decadent dessert that combines the finest ingredients for a truly unforgettable experience. This cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but a masterpiece of textures and flavors, from the moist, velvety chocolate cake to the deep, satisfying crunch of nuts and the smooth, creamy frosting. What makes this recipe stand out is its accessibility – using everyday ingredients, it’s a testament to how creativity and simplicity can come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is designed to impress with minimal effort, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of dark chocolate, nuts, and a hint of vanilla creates a balanced flavor profile that’s both deep and refreshing, all while using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance and taste, the cake is surprisingly easy to prepare. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple to work with, making it a great option for beginners.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The layering of the cake, the frosting, and the topping creates a visually stunning dessert that’s sure to impress any dinner guest, all without requiring extensive baking experience.

Key Ingredients

The Nestle’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake relies on several key ingredients to achieve its signature taste and texture. These include high-quality dark chocolate for the cake and frosting, providing a deep, rich flavor; chopped nuts for added texture and crunch; and a blend of sugar and brown sugar for a balanced sweetness. For the cake, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt are used, while the frosting is made with butter, cream, and a touch of vanilla extract. Practical substitutions can be made for some ingredients, such as using almonds instead of walnuts or opting for semi-sweet chocolate chips if dark chocolate is not available.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Beat until well combined, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly, then fold it into the sugar mixture until well combined.
3. Step 3: Gradually add the flour mixture to the chocolate mixture, beating until just combined. Stir in chopped nuts. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
4. Step 4: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cakes are cool, you can frost and decorate them. For the frosting, beat butter and cream until light and fluffy, then gradually add melted chocolate and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and creamy.

Handy Tips

• Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results, especially for the frosting, as it will make the mixing process easier and result in a smoother texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as it can lead to a dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined.
• For an extra moist cake, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter. It enhances the chocolate flavor without giving the cake a coffee taste.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial when baking the cake and melting the chocolate. For the cake, ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, as this affects the rise and texture of the cake. Use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature. When melting chocolate, use low heat and stir frequently to prevent burning. If using a microwave, melt in short intervals and check the chocolate between each heating to avoid overheating.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this cake comes from the chopped nuts added to the batter. To enhance the crunch, ensure the nuts are toasted lightly before chopping them. This can be done by spreading the nuts on a baking sheet and baking them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let the nuts cool completely before chopping and adding them to the cake batter.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. While it might be tempting to use cheaper alternatives, the taste difference is noticeable.
• For a professional finish, once the cake is frosted, chill it in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to set the frosting. Then, use a sharp knife to trim any excess frosting from the bottom of the cake, creating a clean edge.
• To ensure the cake layers are even, bake them for the same amount of time. If one layer is slightly more cooked than the other, it can be trimmed to match the less cooked one, ensuring the cake stacks evenly.

Storage Tips

• The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• For longer storage, the cake can be frozen. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen cake can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen cake at room temperature or refrigerate overnight.
• Leftover frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring it to room temperature before reusing.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cake makes a wonderful gift, especially for chocolate lovers. Consider packaging it in a decorative cake box or wrapping it in cellophane and tying it with a ribbon. For a more rustic look, wrap the cake in parchment paper and tie with twine. Accompany the gift with a card that includes the recipe or baking tips for a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to the batter for a unique twist.
• Creative toppings: Instead of nuts, try using shaved chocolate, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits like cranberries or cherries.
• Ingredient swaps: Replace some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. You can also use different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. If it’s too dry, it could be overbaked. Adjust the mixing time and baking time accordingly in future attempts.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re allergic to nuts, consider replacing them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. For dairy allergies, use non-dairy milk and dairy-free chocolate.
• Over/undercooking signs: A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it’s covered in batter, the cake is undercooked. If the toothpick is completely clean but the cake looks too dark, it might be overcooked.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours as a substitute, though the texture might vary.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just ensure you have enough pans and adjust the baking time slightly, as larger cakes take longer to cook through.

Conclusion

Nestle’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. With its rich, velvety texture and deep, satisfying flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite among both beginners and seasoned bakers. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, allowing for countless variations and substitutions to make it your own. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply indulge in a chocolate craving, this cake delivers. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the process of making something truly special.