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The Dobash Cake Recipe is a famous Hawaiian dessert known for its soft chocolate cake and silky chocolate pudding frosting.

It tastes light, smooth and very chocolatey. The cake layers stay moist, and the pudding-like frosting melts into every bite.

It’s perfect for birthdays, parties, or any time you want a classic island-style chocolate cake. This cake is simple to make and uses basic ingredients.

The rich frosting is the star of the dessert—it’s glossy, creamy, and full of cocoa flavor. Let’s learn how to make an authentic Dobash Cake at home.

When I First Tried Dobash Cake Recipe

I first tried Dobash cake at a Hawaiian bakery. The frosting was silky and soft, not thick like regular frosting. The cake was airy and moist.

Each bite felt comforting and smooth. After that, I started making it at home. It quickly became a family favorite, especially for birthdays and holidays.

Recipe Card Info

Recipe Name: Dobash Cake
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 310 kcal per slice

Equipment List

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Saucepan
9×13-inch baking pan or round pans
Spatula
Cooling rack
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients You Need for Dobash Cake Recipe

For the cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup warm water
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Dobash frosting:

2 cups water
1 cup sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup butter
½ cup cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch pan or two round cake pans.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

3. Add the Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, warm water, oil, milk, and vanilla.
Mix until the batter is smooth.

4. Bake the Cake

Pour batter into the pan.
Bake for 28–32 minutes.
A toothpick should come out clean.
Let the cake cool completely.

5. Make the Dobash Frosting

In a saucepan, whisk water, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly.
The mixture will thicken like pudding.
Remove from heat and add butter and vanilla.
Stir until smooth.

6. Frost the Cake

Let the frosting cool slightly until warm but pourable.
Pour the warm frosting over the cake.
Spread gently with a spatula.

7. Set and Serve

Allow the cake to chill or set at room temperature for 30–40 minutes.
Slice and enjoy.

Recipe Tips

Warm frosting spreads smoothly—don’t let it get too thick.
Let the cake cool fully before frosting.
Sift cocoa powder for a smoother batter and frosting.
Use whole milk for richer flavor.
Chill the cake for cleaner slices.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount (per slice)
Calories	310 kcal
Carbohydrates	45g
Sugar	32g
Fat	12g
Protein	4g
Fiber	2g

Serving Suggestions

Serve with whipped cream.
Add strawberries or raspberries on top.
Enjoy with coffee or iced tea.
Perfect for celebrations and potlucks.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze slices for 2 months (wrap well).
Room Temperature: Good for 1 day in a cool area.

FAQs about Dobash Cake Recipe

1. What makes Dobash cake different from chocolate cake?
The frosting—Dobash frosting is soft, silky, and pudding-like.

2. Can I use chocolate pudding instead?
No, the homemade frosting gives the true Dobash flavor.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, the cake tastes better the next day.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

5. Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa?
Yes, but the flavor will be deeper and richer.

Conclusion

The Dobash Cake Recipe is a soft, chocolatey and silky Hawaiian classic that melts in your mouth.

With its tender cake and pudding-like frosting, it’s a dessert that feels comforting and special. Make it once, and it will become a favorite for birthdays, gatherings, and sweet cravings!

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