How Nestlé’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake Conquers Dessert

Tired of desserts that promise decadence but deliver disappointment? If you’ve ever bitten into a chocolate cake only to find it dry, bland, or lacking that intense chocolate punch, your sweet tooth struggles end today. Nestlé’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake delivers an experience so rich and indulgent that it truly lives up to its dramatic name.

As someone who’s tested and perfected hundreds of chocolate dessert recipes over the years, I can confidently say this chocolate masterpiece stands in a league of its own. The secret lies in the perfect balance of Nestlé’s premium chocolate products that create layers of flavor complexity simply impossible to achieve with ordinary ingredients.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything from selecting the finest chocolate ingredients to mastering the baking techniques that ensure a moist, fudgy texture. I’ll also share serving suggestions, storage tips, and creative variations to make this showstopping dessert your signature crowd-pleaser.

Why This Nestlé’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake Recipe Works

• Uses easy-to-find Nestlé chocolate products for consistent, high-quality results
• Four distinct chocolate elements create unmatched depth of flavor
• Simple mixing technique prevents overmixing for perfect texture
• Works equally well for casual family gatherings or sophisticated dinner parties
• Can be prepared in advance for stress-free entertaining

Choosing the Right Chocolate for Your Death by Chocolate Cake

Best Chocolate Products for This Recipe

The foundation of any Death by Chocolate Cake is, unsurprisingly, exceptional chocolate. For authentic results, Nestlé chocolate products deliver reliable quality and the perfect flavor profile. The recipe specifically calls for Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels for both the batter and ganache, creating that signature rich taste.

Buying Tips

When shopping for ingredients, look for fresh packages of Nestlé chocolate products. Check expiration dates, as chocolate can develop white bloom (a harmless but unappealing whitish coating) when stored improperly or for too long. For the cocoa powder, choose a Dutch-processed variety for deeper color and smoother flavor.

Substitutions

If you can’t find specific Nestlé products, other premium chocolate brands can work, but may slightly alter the flavor profile. For semi-sweet chocolate morsels, you can substitute dark chocolate chips (60-70% cacao), though this will intensify the chocolate flavor and reduce sweetness.

Ingredients & Prep for Nestlé’s Death by Chocolate Cake

Cake Prep Essentials

Proper preparation is crucial for this decadent dessert. Begin by bringing all refrigerated ingredients (eggs, butter, milk) to room temperature. This simple step ensures better ingredient incorporation and a more even texture. Also, take time to properly prepare your baking pans with parchment paper and a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Cake Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup Nestlé Toll House Cocoa Powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)
• 1 cup Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels

Chocolate Ganache Ingredients

• 2 cups Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

If you’re looking for more chocolate inspiration, check out my chocolate chess pie recipe with 5 rich Southern secrets revealed!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Death by Chocolate Cake

Pre-Cooking Prep for Your Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by lining the bottoms with parchment paper and lightly greasing the sides.
3. Sift together the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt) in a large mixing bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Baking Method for Death by Chocolate Cake

1. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on medium speed until just combined.
2. Reduce mixer speed to low and slowly add hot coffee. The batter will be thin – this is normal!
3. Fold in 1 cup of Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels by hand.
4. Divide batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

Doneness Check for Chocolate Cake

The key to a moist Death by Chocolate Cake is careful baking. A toothpick test should reveal a few moist crumbs – if it comes out completely clean, the cake might be overbaked. The cake’s surface should spring back lightly when gently pressed with a fingertip.

Cooling Your Death by Chocolate Cake

1. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes.
2. Run a knife around the edges and carefully invert onto a wire rack.
3. Remove parchment paper and allow to cool completely before frosting.
4. For best results, wrap cooled cake layers in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour before frosting – this makes them easier to handle.

For another delicious treat that pairs wonderfully with this chocolate cake, try my copycat Texas Roadhouse rolls recipe for a perfect sweet and savory combination!

Pro Tips for Perfect Death by Chocolate Cake

Avoiding Dry Chocolate Cake

• Don’t overmix the batter – stop mixing as soon as ingredients are combined
• Measure flour correctly by spooning into measuring cups and leveling off (don’t scoop directly with measuring cup)
• Use buttermilk for tenderness and moisture
• Don’t overbake – remove from oven when a few moist crumbs still cling to the toothpick

Tool Recommendations for Chocolate Baking

• Digital kitchen scale for precise measurements
• Offset spatula for smooth frosting application
• Bench scraper for creating clean cake sides
• Cake turntable for easier decorating

Storage & Serving of Death by Chocolate Cake

• Store at room temperature under a cake dome for up to 3 days
• Refrigerate for longer storage (up to 1 week), but bring to room temperature before serving
• Freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months

I have many more delicious recipes on my Pinterest page that would complement this decadent chocolate cake beautifully!

Flavor Variations for Death by Chocolate Cake

Mocha Chocolate Dream

Enhance the coffee notes by adding 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the hot coffee before mixing into the batter. Top with coffee-infused ganache by adding 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the warm cream.

Mint Chocolate Delight

Add 1 teaspoon of mint extract to the batter and garnish with crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing twist on the classic chocolate cake.

Orange Chocolate Fusion

Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the batter and substitute 2 tablespoons of the hot coffee with orange liqueur for a sophisticated citrus-chocolate combination.

Looking for something lighter to balance this rich dessert? Try my grilled Hawaiian chicken sandwiches with 5 tropical flavor hacks!

Serving Suggestions for Death by Chocolate Cake

This Nestlé’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake makes a statement on its own, but you can elevate it further with these perfect pairings:

• A scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor
• Fresh raspberry sauce for a fruity contrast to the rich chocolate
• Lightly sweetened whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an elegant presentation
• Hot fudge sauce drizzled over each slice for the ultimate chocolate experience
• Strong coffee or espresso to complement the chocolate intensity

For a full meal plan, serve this cake after my lemon chicken gnocchi for a perfect flavor contrast!

FAQs about Death by Chocolate Cake

Can I make this Death by Chocolate Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked up to 3 days in advance and stored wrapped in plastic at room temperature, or frozen for up to 3 months. The assembled cake is best when prepared within 24 hours of serving.

Do I have to use coffee in this chocolate cake?
The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. If you prefer, you can substitute hot water, but you’ll miss some depth of flavor.

My ganache is too runny. How can I fix it?
Allow it to cool longer at room temperature, gently stirring occasionally. If still too thin, refrigerate for 10-15 minute intervals, stirring between each, until it reaches spreading consistency.

Can I turn this into cupcakes instead?
Yes! This recipe yields approximately 24-30 cupcakes. Reduce baking time to 18-22 minutes and fill cupcake liners only ⅔ full as the batter rises significantly.

How do I get that perfectly smooth frosting finish?
After applying a crumb coat and chilling, use a warm offset spatula (dip in hot water and wipe dry) for the final coat. A cake turntable makes this process much easier.

For a fun appetizer before serving dessert, try my mini grilled cheese Hawaiian rolls – they’re always a hit!

Conclusion

Nestlé’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake isn’t just a dessert – it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true. The perfect blend of rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and decadent ganache creates a memorable dessert experience that will have everyone requesting the recipe.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your chocolate cravings, this cake delivers restaurant-quality results from your home kitchen. The detailed instructions ensure success even if you’re not an experienced baker.

Take your dessert game to the next level with this showstopping chocolate masterpiece. Your friends and family will be impressed not just by how it looks, but by the incredible depth of flavor in every bite.

Ready to embrace chocolate decadence? Grab your mixing bowls and create this ultimate chocolate indulgence today!

How Nestlé’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake Conquers Dessert

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• Author: lily
• Total Time: 1 hr
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Nestlé’s House Toll Death by Chocolate Cake is the ultimate chocolate lover’s fantasy — a rich, decadent layer cake packed with chocolate chips, silky ganache, and fudgy goodness in every bite. This dessert doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth — it conquers it!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

FOR THE CAKE:

1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: eggs, oil, water)

1 cup semisweet Nestlé Toll House chocolate chips

1/2 cup sour cream (for extra moisture)

FOR THE GANACHE FILLING:

1 cup heavy cream

1 1/2 cups Nestlé Toll House semisweet chocolate chips

1 tbsp butter

FOR THE TOPPING:

1 cup whipped cream or chocolate frosting

Extra chocolate chips, curls, or shavings (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions, then fold in sour cream and chocolate chips.

3. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4. Cool cakes completely on wire racks.

5. Meanwhile, prepare the ganache: heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering, then pour over chocolate chips and butter. Let sit 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy.

6. Refrigerate ganache for 15–20 minutes, until thickened but spreadable.

7. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread with half the ganache, then top with the second layer.

8. Spread the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake.

9. Decorate with whipped cream, chocolate curls, or extra chips.

10. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing for the cleanest cuts.

Notes

Use dark chocolate chips for an even richer flavor.

Add a shot of espresso or coffee powder to the batter to intensify the chocolate taste.

Serve with vanilla ice cream or fresh raspberries for contrast.

This cake stores well covered in the fridge for up to 5 days — and tastes even better the next day!

• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 42g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: death by chocolate cake, nestle toll house cake, chocolate ganache cake, rich chocolate dessert, moist chocolate layer cake