What is Mexican chocolate cake?

Mexican chocolate cake is a rich, moist dessert made with traditional Mexican chocolate that’s blended with cinnamon and sugar. Unlike a standard chocolate cake, this version often includes spices like cinnamon and cayenne, giving it a warm, slightly spicy flavor profile that’s bold yet comforting.

What makes Mexican chocolate different?

Mexican chocolate is grainier and less processed than typical baking chocolate. It comes in solid discs or tablets and includes cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes nuts or chili. When melted, it has a thicker, textured quality that adds richness and depth to any dessert — especially cakes.

What is the most popular cake in Mexico?

While tres leches cake is likely the most well-known and widely loved cake in Mexico, Mexican chocolate cake holds a strong place in celebrations and everyday baking. Its use of traditional chocolate makes it a flavorful and nostalgic choice for many families.

Is Abuelita Mexican chocolate?

Yes, Abuelita is a popular brand of authentic Mexican chocolate, made in Mexico and widely available in North America. It's known for its round, hexagon-shaped tablets and its signature blend of sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa. It’s often used for hot chocolate but works beautifully in baked goods like cake.

Mexican Chocolate Cake – Amazing Recipe with 5 Simple Steps

Description

A bold, spiced take on classic chocolate cake made with traditional Mexican chocolate and a touch of cinnamon and cayenne.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablets Mexican chocolate (Abuelita or Ibarra)
1 cup hot coffee or hot water
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk

1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch pan.
Melt Mexican chocolate in hot coffee or water. Let cool slightly.
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cayenne.
In a large bowl, beat brown sugar, granulated sugar, and oil.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in buttermilk, vanilla, and the melted chocolate mixture.
Gradually stir in dry ingredients until smooth.
Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Let cool before slicing or frosting.

Notes

For extra warmth, increase cayenne slightly.
Dust with powdered sugar or top with ganache.

Best served at room temperature or slightly warm.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Method: Baking

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 360
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 3g