Table of Contents

Introduction

Nestlé Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake is not just a dessert — it’s an experience. Imagine the rich aroma of chocolate filling your kitchen, the glossy ganache dripping luxuriously down the sides of a moist, fudgy cake, and the first bite that practically melts in your mouth. This is the kind of cake that turns ordinary evenings into celebrations and makes chocolate lovers swoon.

I first had a version of this cake at a potluck party. The host brought out a bundt pan creation, glossy with ganache and studded with Nestlé chocolate chips. By the time the first slice hit my plate, I knew I was about to meet my new guilty pleasure. The combination of devil’s food cake mix, instant pudding, sour cream, coffee, and a flood of chocolate chips created a moist, decadent bite I still dream about.

The name “Death by Chocolate” isn’t just for fun — it’s a badge of honor for anyone who loves chocolate in every possible form. If you’ve been craving a dessert that’s bold, rich, and unforgettable, this recipe will satisfy every craving. And if you want to explore another rich cake option, don’t miss the Blueberry Sour Cream Pound Cake for a fruity twist.

Ingredients for Death by Chocolate Cake

Cake

1 box Devil’s Food Cake Mix
1 box (3.9 oz) Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix
5 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup vegetable oil
1 cup sour cream (or buttermilk)
¾ cup brewed coffee, cooled
2 cups Nestlé Toll House chocolate chips

Ganache Frosting

½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
½ cup milk (plus more as needed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions for Death by Chocolate Cake

Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan (or 9×13-inch pan).
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cake mix and pudding mix. Whisk to combine.
Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, vanilla, oil, sour cream (or buttermilk), and coffee until smooth.
Combine and Fold
Gradually mix wet ingredients into the dry. Fold in 1 ½ cups chocolate chips, reserving ½ cup for garnish.
Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
Prepare Ganache
In a saucepan, melt butter on low heat. Whisk in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Stir constantly until smooth and glossy. Add walnuts if using.
Frost the Cake
Pour ganache over cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides. Garnish with remaining chocolate chips.

Tips & Variations for Death by Chocolate Cake

Extra Rich: Replace coffee with espresso for deeper flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.
Fruity Touch: Top with fresh raspberries or strawberries for balance.
Cheesecake Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of cheesecake batter into the cake before baking for a surprise inside.
Looking for something lighter? Check out this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe for a savory companion.

Storage for Death by Chocolate Cake

This Death by Chocolate Cake is best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a chilled texture, store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving. The ganache may lose a little shine, but the flavor will stay irresistible.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

Tools Used

Bundt pan or 9×13-inch pan
Large mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
Saucepan (for ganache)
Rubber spatula
Cooling rack

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this cake without coffee?
Yes! Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor but you can replace it with water or milk if you prefer.

Q2: Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Definitely. Milk chocolate will give a sweeter flavor, while semi-sweet or dark adds more richness.

Final Thoughts on Death by Chocolate Cake

The Nestlé Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake is a dream come true for chocolate enthusiasts. It layers rich flavors from devil’s food cake, pudding, and chocolate chips with a decadent ganache frosting that takes it to the next level. It’s the kind of dessert that demands a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream on the side.

This is the perfect centerpiece for birthdays, holidays, or just when you want to spoil yourself and your loved ones. And if you’re hunting for more chocolate inspiration, check out Allrecipes where countless bakers share their versions of this indulgent treat.

Death by Chocolate Cake topped with ganache and Nestlé chocolate chips

TINSUF RECIPES

Nestlé Toll House Death by Chocolate Cake

A rich and fudgy chocolate cake loaded with pudding mix, sour cream, coffee, and Nestlé Toll House chocolate chips, topped with decadent ganache frosting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1 5

Course: cake

Cuisine: American

Calories: 480