15-Layer Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cake
15-Layer Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cake
There’s something magical about old-fashioned layer cakes—the ones that take time, patience, and love to come together. This 15-layer chocolate cake (sometimes called a 14-layer cake, depending on how you slice it) is a true Southern classic. Each thin, tender layer of cake is stacked high with rich, homemade chocolate frosting that’s cooked on the stovetop before being spread generously between every bite. The result? A towering showstopper of a cake that’s moist, chocolatey, and absolutely unforgettable.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 cup shortening
- 4 eggs
- 3 cups plain flour
- 2 tbsp baking powder
- 2 1/2 cups sweet milk (whole milk)
- 1 tbsp vanilla flavoring
- 1 tbsp butter flavoring
- 2 cups sugar
Icing
- 3 cups sugar
- 6 tbsp cocoa
- 1 cup butter
- 1 can evaporated milk
Method
Prep & Cook Time: ~3 hours
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
Sift flour and baking powder together. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Base
In a large mixing bowl, cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 3: Add Flour & Milk
Add the flour mixture alternately with the milk, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla and butter flavoring.
Step 4: Bake Thin Layers
Grease and flour 9-inch cake pans (or use Baker’s Joy). Spread about 1/2 cup of batter into each pan. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven until lightly browned.
👉 Tip: Wash pans between layers to prevent buildup. Start stacking the cake as layers cool.
Step 5: Make the Frosting First
In a 4-quart saucepan, melt butter. Mix in cocoa, sugar, and evaporated milk. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Frosting will be thin but spreads beautifully.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Spread frosting between each layer, then cover the top and sides of the cake generously. Allow frosting to set before slicing.
Tips & Variations
- For a glossy finish, keep the frosting warm as you assemble the cake.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to the icing for deeper chocolate flavor.
- Slice carefully with a serrated knife to show off those stunning 15 layers!
Serving Suggestions
This cake is the ultimate centerpiece for birthdays, holidays, or Sunday suppers. Serve thin slices—it’s rich and filling—and pair with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee.
