Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake is pure amor en pastel love baked into every layer. With its rich cocoa flavor, a touch of cinnamon, and velvety whipped cream frosting, this cake brings the warmth of Mexican tradition right to your table. It’s more than dessert it’s a celebration of love, laughter, and the simple joy of sharing something homemade with the people who make life beautiful.
The Story Behind My Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake
Ah, mis queridos amigos, this cake carries the sweetness of my childhood! Every time a birthday or special occasion came around, my Tía Isabel would bring out her big mixing bowl and start humming old ranchera songs as she baked. The smell of chocolate and cinnamon would drift through the air, wrapping the whole house in a cozy blanket of happiness.
We, the kids, would hover nearby pretending to “help” but really just hoping for a taste of frosting. When the cake was finally ready, we’d all gather around, forks in hand, ready for that first, glorious bite. One slice of Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake and the whole room turned into a fiesta of smiles.
So today, I’m sharing that same magic with you because cakes like this one aren’t just made to eat; they’re made to feel.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake
This cake is everything a dessert should be simple to make, rich in flavor, and filled with love. Here’s why it’ll win everyone’s hearts:
- Incredibly moist, thanks to the milk-and-water blend
- Infused with warm cinnamon for that authentic Mexican touch
- Perfectly balanced sweetness with a cloud-like whipped frosting
- Elegant enough for celebrations, easy enough for everyday joy
- A true crowd-pleaser chocolate lovers, this one’s for you!
Each slice melts in your mouth like a sweet serenade. ¡Ay, qué delicioso!
Ingredients for Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake
Gather your ingredients, mis amores this is where the magic begins:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for extra richness)
For the frosting:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
That’s it simple ingredients that come together in harmony to make something extraordinary.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Smell that? It’s the essence of Mexico warm and aromatic.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently until smooth no overmixing, cariño!
Step 5: Add the Hot Water
Slowly pour in 1 cup of hot water while stirring. Don’t worry if the batter looks thin; this step ensures that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 6: Optional Chocolate Boost
Fold in chocolate chips for extra decadence.
Step 7: Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the two pans. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon smell like sweet heaven!
Step 8: Cool Completely
Let the cakes rest in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Make the Frosting
Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla together until soft, fluffy peaks form. This whipped frosting is pure velvet!
Step 10: Assemble
Spread a layer of frosting on one cake, then gently place the second layer on top. Cover the whole cake in that luscious frosting don’t be shy!
Step 11: Decorate
Sprinkle with cinnamon, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of dulce de leche for a festive finish.
How to Serve Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake for Family & Friends
Now for the best part serving your beautiful creation! Cut into generous slices and serve on pretty plates with big smiles. Pair it with:
- A mug of café de olla or hot chocolate for the ultimate comfort combo
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast
- Fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color
When you serve this cake, don’t just serve dessert serve love, laughter, and a little bit of family history.

How to Keep Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake Fresh for Later
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), here’s how to keep it perfect:
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the fridge: Keeps fresh for 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- In the freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy like new!
Tía Maribel’s Flavor Secrets
Now, my dears, let me whisper my flavor secrets the little touches that make this cake unforgettable:
- A Pinch of Spice: Add a touch of cayenne or chili powder for a gentle heat that enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Coffee Magic: Substitute half of the hot water with strong brewed coffee it deepens the richness.
- Frosting Upgrade: Fold in a spoonful of dulce de leche or orange zest into the frosting for a new twist.
- Glazed Top: Pour a thin layer of chocolate ganache over the frosting for a glossy, luxurious finish.
Cooking tip: Always bake with joy! Cakes made with love taste better every time.
Make It Your Own – Fun Twists
Get creative, mis amigos! This cake is your delicious canvas.
- Mocha Lovers’ Dream: Add espresso powder to the batter and frosting.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle toasted pecans or almonds between the layers.
- Berry Bliss: Add a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam between the cakes for a fruity surprise.
- Spiced Holiday Cake: Add cloves or nutmeg for a festive twist.
Make it yours and let every bite reflect your unique flavor story!
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Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing gently until smooth.
- Slowly stir in the hot water. Batter will be thin, which is normal.
- Fold in chocolate chips if using, for extra richness.
- Divide the batter evenly into pans. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cakes rest in pans for 10 minutes, then cool completely on a wire rack.
- Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft, fluffy peaks form.
- Frost one cake layer, then stack and cover with the rest of the whipped cream frosting.
- Decorate with cinnamon, chocolate shavings, or dulce de leche if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!FAQs About Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake a day ahead and frost it fresh before serving.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Sí! Almond, oat, or coconut milk work beautifully just adjust the sweetness to your taste.
Can I make cupcakes instead?
Yes! Fill cupcake liners ⅔ full and bake for 20–25 minutes. Perfect for parties or gifts!
How can I make it more chocolatey?
Use dark cocoa powder or add extra chocolate chips. Or drizzle melted chocolate over the top divine!
¡Listo para disfrutar!
And there you have it, mi querida familia a Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake rich with flavor, heart, and tradition. Moist, creamy, and kissed with cinnamon, it’s a celebration baked into every bite.
So gather your loved ones, pour some café, and share this delicious masterpiece. Because when food comes from the heart, it feeds the soul. ¡Buen provecho y feliz celebración!
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