Name: Chocolate Malt Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 Tablespoons (42g) malted milk powder; ¾ to 1 cup (180-240mL) whole milk; 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar; 1 and ¾ cups (210g) all-purpose flour; 1 and ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ¾ cup (72g) unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted); 2 large eggs; ½ cup (120mL) vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup (240mL) coffee; 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar; ¾ cup (72g) Dutch processed or unsweetened cocoa powder; ⅓ cup (37g) malted milk powder; ⅛ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); ⅓ to ½ cup (80-120mL) milk or cream

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Chocolate Malt Cake is a delightful tribute to the classic malt flavor we all know and love. With its rich, velvety layers and hint of nostalgia, this cake beckons to be the centerpiece of your next gathering. Each bite is a celebration of chocolate, complemented by that distinctive malted milk taste that many of us grew up enjoying. Imagine the soft, moist crumb paired with a lightly sweet and chocolatey frosting that melts in your mouth—sounds irresistible, right?

Pin this for later!

I first made a Chocolate Malt Cake during a close friend’s birthday party, wanting to create something special that would not only impress but also evoke warm memories from our childhood. Every forkful brought back those carefree days spent at the ice cream parlor, sharing shakes and laughs. This cake is easy to whip up, making it perfect for every occasion, whether a festive celebration or simply to satisfy a craving. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together and how cheering it is to savor that delightful flavor.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Chocolate Malt Cake
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Chocolate Malt Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: It takes just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes in the oven.
Irresistible Flavor: Rich chocolate paired with creamy malt for a flavor you can’t resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Beautiful layers topped with luscious frosting that impresses every time.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for parties, celebrations, or even a cozy family dinner.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adjust ingredients for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

6 Tablespoons malted milk powder: This gives the cake its signature malt flavor. You can substitute with powdered milk if needed.
¾ to 1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture; adjust the amount for desired texture. Almond milk can work for a dairy-free option.
2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake; it’s the base for that perfectly moist crumb.
1 and ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Essential for structure; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier twist.
1 and ½ teaspoons baking soda: Helps the cake rise; be sure it’s fresh for the best results.
1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder: Works with baking soda for optimal leavening.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor; sift for smoothness.
2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together while adding moisture.
½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist; you could use melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor; always use pure vanilla for the best taste.
1 cup coffee: Enhances chocolate flavor; it should be brewed and cooled slightly before adding.

For the frosting:

4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting; sift to eliminate lumps.
¾ cup cocoa powder: Deepens chocolatey flavor in the frosting.
⅓ cup malted milk powder: Adds a nice touch of flavor.
⅛ teaspoon salt: Enhances sweetness in the frosting.
1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Creates a creamy base; ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
⅓ to ½ cup milk or cream: Adjust based on the desired frosting consistency.

How to Make Chocolate Malt Cake

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 and ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 and ½ teaspoons baking soda, 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¾ cup sifted unsweetened cocoa powder until well-combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together 2 large eggs, ½ cup vegetable oil, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and ¾ to 1 cup whole milk. Pour in 1 cup coffee (cooled slightly) and mix until well incorporated.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes: Remove from the oven and allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 4 cups powdered sugar, ¾ cup cocoa powder, ⅓ cup malted milk powder, and ⅛ teaspoon salt. Mix until smooth, then gradually add in ⅓ to ½ cup milk or cream until the desired consistency is reached.
Assemble the Cake: Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then top it with the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake, using a spatula or a knife to create smooth edges.
Garnish (Optional): For an extra touch, you can sprinkle crushed malt balls or chocolate shavings on top for a delightful contrast.

Storing & Reheating

To store your Chocolate Malt Cake, keep it in a sealed container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend its freshness, refrigerate it for about a week, ensuring it’s covered to prevent drying. You can also freeze the cake for up to three months—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to safeguard against freezer burn. For reheating, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying. Reheating in the microwave for about 10 seconds can also bring back that fresh texture, but be aware that frosting might soften.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To prevent the cake from doming up, make sure your oven temperature is accurate, and avoid opening the oven door too early.
Room temperature eggs and butter provide a smoother batter that leads to an even texture.
Baking times can vary, so test for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.
If your frosting is too thick, add milk a tablespoon at a time until it’s creamy and spreadable.
This cake is perfect for make-ahead occasions; you can bake the layers a day in advance and frost just before serving.

Chocolate Malt Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings joy and warmth with each bite. A balance of rich chocolate and nostalgic malt, it’s sure to become a beloved dessert at your gatherings. Don’t hesitate to improvise a bit—whether swapping out ingredients or trying different flavors, every twist will deliver delightful results. Enjoy creating this tempting layer cake with friends and family, and watch as smiles light up around the table!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use different types of milk?

Absolutely! While whole milk gives the best results, feel free to substitute with almond, oat, or soy milk. Just remember that each milk alternative may slightly change the flavor or texture.

What can I do if my cake sinks in the middle?

A sunken middle often results from overmixing the batter, not baking it long enough, or having too much liquid. Aim to mix until just combined and use a toothpick to check doneness before the timer goes off.

How should I serve Chocolate Malt Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s perfect for birthdays, holiday gatherings, or just because it’s a Wednesday!

How can I enhance the malt flavor?

You can amplify the malt flavor by adding more malted milk powder to the frosting or even sprinkling some on top of the cake. A splash of malt syrup in the batter can also deepen the flavor profile beautifully.

⭐ If you make my Chocolate Malt Cake recipe, Awesome! I would love to hear from you. Please give it a star rating and review below! 👇

Chocolate Malt Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Chocolate Malt Cake

Storing & Reheating

Chef’s Helpful Tips