When it comes to creating decadent desserts with minimal effort, Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix is a baker’s best friend.
Whether you’re whipping up a quick treat for a weeknight dessert or crafting an elaborate cake for a special occasion, this versatile cake mix serves as the perfect foundation for countless creative recipes.
From classic chocolate cakes to innovative twists that incorporate rich flavors like peanut butter, raspberries, or even peppermint, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.
In this collection of 25+ recipes, you’ll discover an array of delightful ways to transform a simple box of Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix into mouthwatering desserts that will impress any crowd.
25+ Irresistible Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix Recipes to Try Today!
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these 25+ recipes offer something for everyone, from simple weeknight treats to show-stopping desserts for special occasions.
With just a few additional ingredients and a dash of imagination, you can elevate a basic cake mix into extraordinary desserts that taste as if they’ve been made from scratch.
So, the next time you’re in the baking aisle, grab a box of Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix and get ready to create something truly spectacular.
Double Chocolate Fudge Cake
The Double Chocolate Fudge Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that’s perfect for chocolate lovers. Using Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix as the base, this cake is enhanced with chocolate fudge pudding and chocolate chips to create a moist and intensely chocolatey treat. Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or simply indulging a chocolate craving, this cake is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate fudge pudding mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix, chocolate fudge pudding mix, sour cream, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Stir in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
The Double Chocolate Fudge Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream, with layers of rich chocolate flavor and a moist, tender crumb. The addition of chocolate fudge pudding mix and chocolate chips takes this cake to the next level, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or whenever you need a serious chocolate fix. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Chocolate Cherry Drizzle Cake
Chocolate Cherry Drizzle Cake combines the classic pairing of chocolate and cherries in a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert. Made with Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix and topped with a cherry glaze, this cake is both visually stunning and incredibly tasty. It’s perfect for holidays, romantic dinners, or anytime you want to enjoy the timeless combination of chocolate and cherries.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in the cherry pie filling and almond extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth to create a glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and sprinkle with chopped maraschino cherries if desired.
Chocolate Cherry Drizzle Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully marries the rich flavors of chocolate and cherries. The moist chocolate cake is enhanced by the fruity cherry filling and topped with a sweet, glossy glaze. This cake is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a wonderful choice for both casual gatherings and more formal occasions. Enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of ice cream for a perfect finish.
Chocolate Espresso Cake
Chocolate Espresso Cake is a sophisticated dessert that combines the deep flavors of chocolate and coffee. Made with Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix and infused with espresso, this cake has a rich and bold flavor profile that’s perfect for coffee lovers. Whether you’re serving it after dinner or enjoying it with your morning coffee, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix, brewed espresso, vegetable oil, eggs, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the dark chocolate chips and vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust the top of the cooled cake with cocoa powder before serving.
Chocolate Espresso Cake is a decadent and flavorful dessert that brings together the rich taste of chocolate with the boldness of espresso. The Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix provides a moist and tender base, while the espresso adds depth and complexity to the flavor. This cake is perfect for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and coffee, and it’s sure to be a hit whether you’re serving it as an after-dinner dessert or enjoying a slice with your morning brew.
Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Cake
The Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Cake is an elegant dessert that pairs the rich taste of chocolate with the tartness of raspberries. This decadent cake is made using Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix, with layers of raspberry filling and a luscious chocolate ganache. It’s a perfect treat for special occasions or whenever you want to indulge in a sophisticated dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
- 1/4 cup fresh raspberries (optional for garnish)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix according to package instructions, mixing with water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small saucepan, heat the raspberry preserves over low heat until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth and glossy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Once the cakes have cooled, spread a thin layer of raspberry preserves on top of one layer. Place the second cake layer on top.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Garnish with fresh raspberries if desired.
- Allow the ganache to set before slicing and serving.
The Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Cake is a luxurious dessert that brings together the intense flavors of chocolate and the bright notes of raspberry. The rich ganache paired with the tart raspberry filling creates a harmonious balance that is both indulgent and refreshing. This cake is sure to impress your guests and make any occasion feel extra special. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself, this cake is a show-stopper.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Cake
Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in dessert heaven, and this Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Cake is no exception. Made with Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix and swirled with creamy peanut butter, this cake is moist, rich, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you need a comforting and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix according to package instructions, mixing with water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
- In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the batter, then use a knife to swirl the peanut butter into the cake.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Garnish with chopped peanuts if desired.
The Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Cake is a delightful combination of two classic flavors that everyone loves. The rich chocolate cake is beautifully complemented by the creamy, nutty swirls of peanut butter, creating a treat that is both satisfying and irresistible. This cake is easy to make yet offers a sophisticated flavor profile, making it perfect for everything from family dinners to special celebrations. Enjoy a slice with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for the ultimate dessert experience.
Mint Chocolate Chip Cake
If you love the cool and refreshing taste of mint paired with rich chocolate, this Mint Chocolate Chip Cake is the dessert for you. Using Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix as a base, this cake is infused with mint extract and studded with chocolate chips, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Topped with a minty frosting, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- A few drops of green food coloring (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix according to package instructions, mixing with water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Add the mint extract to the batter and mix well.
- Stir in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the frosting, beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, until smooth and spreadable. Stir in a few drops of green food coloring if desired.
- Frost the cooled cakes and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
The Mint Chocolate Chip Cake is a refreshing and decadent dessert that perfectly balances the rich flavor of chocolate with the coolness of mint. The addition of chocolate chips adds a delightful texture, making every bite a treat. This cake is ideal for special occasions, holidays, or whenever you’re in the mood for something a little different. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the classic combination of mint and chocolate in a stunning and tasty cake.
Chocolate Mocha Fudge Cake
For coffee and chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Mocha Fudge Cake is a dream come true. This decadent dessert combines the rich flavors of Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix with the bold taste of coffee, creating a cake that’s both moist and deeply flavorful. Topped with a creamy mocha frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion, especially when you need a little extra indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix, brewed coffee, vegetable oil, eggs, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the mocha frosting, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the heavy cream. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar. Mix in the coffee-infused cream until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cakes and decorate as desired.
The Chocolate Mocha Fudge Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that brings together the best of coffee and chocolate. The mocha frosting adds a creamy, flavorful layer that perfectly complements the deep chocolate cake. Whether you’re serving this cake at a gathering or enjoying it as a personal treat, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something sweet and bold. The combination of coffee and chocolate makes this cake a must-try for any dessert lover.
Chocolate Cherry Delight Cake
The Chocolate Cherry Delight Cake is a decadent dessert that pairs the rich flavor of Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix with the sweet and tangy taste of cherries. This moist and flavorful cake is filled with cherry preserves and topped with a smooth chocolate glaze, making it a perfect treat for special occasions or whenever you want to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup cherry preserves
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix according to package instructions, mixing with water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small saucepan, heat the cherry preserves until warm and spreadable. Set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth and glossy. Stir in the almond extract.
- Once the cakes have cooled, spread a layer of cherry preserves on top of one layer. Place the second cake layer on top.
- Pour the chocolate glaze over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Garnish with chopped maraschino cherries if desired.
- Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
The Chocolate Cherry Delight Cake is a deliciously indulgent dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the bright flavor of cherries. The cherry preserves and chocolate glaze create a perfect harmony of flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. This cake is sure to be a hit at any celebration, offering a unique and elegant twist on traditional chocolate cake. Whether you’re a fan of cherries or just love a good chocolate dessert, this cake is a must-try.
Chocolate Almond Joy Cake
Inspired by the classic candy bar, the Chocolate Almond Joy Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the flavors of chocolate, coconut, and almonds. Made with Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix, this cake is layered with a creamy coconut filling and topped with a rich chocolate ganache and toasted almonds. It’s a treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix according to package instructions, mixing with water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, mix the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Once the cakes have cooled, spread the coconut filling on top of one layer. Place the second cake layer on top.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Garnish with toasted almonds.
- Allow the ganache to set before slicing and serving.
The Chocolate Almond Joy Cake is a fun and delicious dessert that captures the flavors of the beloved candy bar. The combination of coconut filling, rich chocolate ganache, and crunchy toasted almonds creates a cake that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of the candy or just love the combination of chocolate and coconut, this cake is sure to be a hit. It’s a perfect choice for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to treat yourself to something special.
Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Cake
The Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Cake is a festive dessert that combines the rich flavors of Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix with the refreshing taste of peppermint. Perfect for the holiday season, this cake is topped with a creamy peppermint frosting and sprinkled with crushed candy canes, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. It’s a visually stunning and delicious treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons milk
- Red food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix according to package instructions, mixing with water, vegetable oil, eggs, and peppermint extract.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and a few drops of red food coloring (if using), mixing until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cakes and sprinkle the top with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
- Allow the frosting to set before slicing and serving.
The Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Cake is a festive delight that perfectly balances the richness of chocolate with the refreshing taste of peppermint. The crushed candy cane topping adds a fun and crunchy texture, making this cake not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply in the mood for a minty treat, this cake is sure to bring joy to your table. The combination of flavors makes it a must-try for peppermint lovers.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Lava Cake
The Chocolate Peanut Butter Lava Cake is an indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix with a gooey peanut butter center. This decadent cake is easy to make yet impressive to serve, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or when you’re craving something truly indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour six 8-ounce ramekins or a muffin tin.
- Prepare the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix according to package instructions, mixing with water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
- In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fill each ramekin halfway with the cake batter. Drop a spoonful of the peanut butter mixture into the center of each, then cover with more batter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the ramekins for a few minutes, then carefully invert onto serving plates.
- Garnish with mini chocolate chips if desired, and serve warm to enjoy the molten peanut butter center.
The Chocolate Peanut Butter Lava Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate and peanut butter lover. The molten peanut butter center creates a delightful surprise, making this cake a perfect treat for special occasions or whenever you need a little extra indulgence. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, this cake is a must-try for anyone who loves the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter.
Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Cake
The Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Cake is a luxurious dessert that combines the rich flavors of Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix with the sweet and tangy taste of raspberries. This elegant cake is filled with a smooth raspberry ganache and topped with fresh raspberries, creating a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/4 cup raspberry preserves
- 1 teaspoon raspberry extract
- Fresh raspberries, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Duncan Hines Chocolate Cake Mix according to package instructions, mixing with water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Stir in the raspberry preserves and raspberry extract until well combined.
- Once the cakes have cooled, spread a layer of the raspberry ganache on top of one layer. Place the second cake layer on top.
- Pour the remaining ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
- Garnish with fresh raspberries and allow the ganache to set before slicing and serving.
The Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Cake is an elegant and indulgent dessert that perfectly balances the richness of chocolate with the bright flavor of raspberries. The raspberry ganache filling adds a luxurious touch, making this cake a perfect choice for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly decadent. The fresh raspberries add a pop of color and flavor, making this cake as beautiful as it is delicious.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
