Description

Indulge in the nostalgic flavor of this Chocolate Malt Cake with Malt Frosting! A rich, moist Devil’s Food Cake meets creamy, malt-infused frosting for a dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because. Topped with malt balls, every bite is a delicious throwback to classic soda fountain treats.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

1 (15.25-ounce) box Devil’s Food Cake mix
1 cup water
½ cup vegetable oil
3 eggs
1 cup malted milk powder

For the Frosting:

¾ cup cocoa powder
4 cups powdered sugar
1 cup malted milk powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
¾ cup heavy cream

Optional Garnish:

- Malt balls (e.g., Whoppers or Maltesers)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and malted milk powder.
Mix on low speed for 30 seconds to combine, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and creamy. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, malted milk powder, and salt.
In a stand mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar mixture to the butter, alternating with heavy cream.
Mix on low for 30 seconds, then increase to medium-high and beat for 3 minutes until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

1. Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top while it’s still in the pan or remove the cake and frost the top and sides.
2. Garnish with malt balls for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch.

Notes

Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, use room-temperature eggs and butter for smoother mixing.
Customizable Toppings: Swap malt balls for chocolate chips or drizzle the cake with chocolate ganache for added decadence.
Storage: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing Option: Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American