Nestles House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake

I still remember the first time I made this Nestlé Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake. It was for a close friend’s birthday – a true chocoholic – and I wanted to bake something decadent enough to blow everyone away. The first bite was pure magic: deep, rich layers of moist chocolate cake, studded with chunks of Nestlé Toll House chocolate chips, and topped with a luscious, creamy ganache. That cake didn’t just satisfy a craving; it left a memory. Now it’s a staple in my kitchen for any special occasion where only the most indulgent dessert will do.

What I absolutely love about this recipe is how deeply chocolatey it is. If you’re someone who believes there’s no such thing as too much chocolate, this one is for you. It’s not just a chocolate cake – it’s chocolate layered over chocolate, with different textures and intensities coming together in one dramatic, mouthwatering slice. Whether you’re baking it for a celebration or just because you deserve a treat, this cake delivers every time.

You’ll fall in love with this recipe because it’s:

• Versatile: You can serve it as a showstopping birthday cake, dress it down for a casual family dinner, or make cupcakes for a party.

• Affordable: Despite how luxurious it tastes, the ingredients are easy to find and reasonably priced. Most are probably already in your pantry.

• Foolproof: It comes together quickly and doesn’t require any fancy techniques or equipment. If you can stir and bake, you can make this cake.

Ingredients for the Recipe:

Here’s everything you need to make the perfect Nestlé Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake:

• 1 box devil’s food chocolate cake mix

• 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup vegetable oil

• 4 large eggs

• ½ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups Nestlé Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips

• ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)

• Chocolate ganache (made with heavy cream and Nestlé Toll House chips)

This ingredient list packs maximum flavor into every component of the cake, and it leaves room for you to add your own flair – a sprinkle of sea salt, a touch of espresso powder, or a drizzle of caramel for extra drama.

How to Prepare This Recipe

Creating the Nestlé Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake is simpler than it looks. This cake may taste like it came straight out of a professional bakery, but it’s quick and easy to make in your own kitchen. What I appreciate most is how each step adds depth to the flavor and richness to the texture. From the soft crumb of the cake to the silky ganache that drips down the sides, every element builds toward that unforgettable chocolate experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease and flour a standard 10-inch Bundt pan or a deep round cake tin. Make sure the inside is coated thoroughly, as this cake is very moist and can stick.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of vegetable oil, 4 large eggs, ½ cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. These ingredients create the moist, rich texture that makes this cake stand out.

3. Add the Dry Ingredients

Gradually sift in the devil’s food cake mix and instant chocolate pudding mix. Blend them into the wet ingredients using a spatula or electric mixer on medium speed. Stir just until combined—don’t overmix. The pudding adds extra moisture and depth of flavor.

4. Fold in the Chocolate

Now fold in the 2 cups of Nestlé Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips. This is the most indulgent part. The chips melt slightly into the batter while baking, creating bursts of molten chocolate in every slice.

5. Pour and Smooth

Transfer the thick batter into your prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly so it bakes uniformly. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

6. Bake the Cake

Place the cake in the oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes.

7. Turn Out and Cool

Gently invert the cake onto a cooling rack or serving plate. Let it cool completely before adding the ganache. This is crucial—if the cake is too warm, the ganache will melt right off.

8. Make the Ganache

In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy cream over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Do not boil. Remove from heat and pour it over 1½ cups of Nestlé Toll House chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.

9. Finish with the Ganache

Once your cake is cool, slowly pour the ganache over the top. Let it drip down the sides naturally for that beautiful, dramatic effect. For extra flair, sprinkle mini chocolate chips or shavings on top before it sets.

Quick and Easy for All Skill Levels

Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, this recipe is friendly to all levels. The boxed mix keeps it simple, while the added ingredients give it a bakery-quality finish. No need for complicated layering, sculpting, or piping—just mix, bake, and drizzle.

Customizable Options

There are plenty of ways to make this recipe your own. For example:

• Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.

• Stir chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch.

• Replace the chocolate ganache with a dark chocolate glaze or whipped chocolate frosting.

• Top with berries or a dusting of cocoa powder for a decorative, elegant touch.

These custom touches allow you to tailor the cake to suit your guests, event, or even your mood.

Popular with Everyone Who Tries It

This cake never fails to impress. It’s a hit at birthday parties, potlucks, holiday dinners, or cozy weekends at home. I’ve even made it for bake sales and it was the first to sell out. The rich flavor and soft, fudgy texture appeal to all ages—kids love it, adults swoon over it, and everyone asks for seconds.

It’s the kind of cake people remember and request again and again.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate chip?
Yes, you can substitute Nestlé Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. However, using semi-sweet chocolate gives the most balanced richness without being overly sweet.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it, covered, at room temperature. Add the ganache shortly before serving for the freshest look and texture.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Allow refrigerated cake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes. Freeze the cake (without ganache) by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature and add ganache before serving.

Can I make this cake without a Bundt pan?
Yes. You can use two 9-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time slightly—check for doneness around 35–40 minutes.