Better Than Sex Cake Recipe: The Real Story Behind This Famous Dessert
Whether you call it “Better Than Sex Cake recipe” or one of its more modest aliases, this infamous dessert certainly lives up to its provocative name. Imagine diving into layers of rich chocolate cake dripping with warm caramel and sweetened condensed milk, all topped with clouds of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed Heath bars for the perfect crunch.
This better than sex chocolate cake is undoubtedly one of the easiest cake recipes you’ll ever make, as it actually uses a cake mix (though that can be our little secret). What makes the original better than sex cake recipe so irresistible is its complete indulgence – a sweet condensed milk-caramel sauce poured over the cake, chocolate-covered toffee bits, and a generous layer of whipped topping creating a dessert experience that’s truly unforgettable. For those wondering how to make better than sex cake, I’ll guide you through both the better than sex cake recipe easy version and a better than sex cake from scratch option, showing you just how simple it is to create this crowd-pleasing dessert that provides 236 calories per serving.
The Ingredients That Make It Irresistible
The magic of this decadent dessert lies in its perfectly balanced combination of ingredients. Let’s explore what makes each component special and how they work together to create a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Devil’s food cake mix or homemade chocolate cake
The foundation of any better than sex cake recipe begins with a rich chocolate base. Traditional recipes call for Devil’s food cake mix, which differs from regular chocolate cake by being notably darker, richer, and more moist. Devil’s food cake typically uses cocoa powder rather than melted chocolate and often incorporates coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor. Furthermore, it contains additional baking soda which raises the pH level, creating that distinctive deep mahogany color.
If you prefer making your better than sex cake from scratch, consider using buttermilk in your homemade chocolate cake for added moisture. Additionally, adding a cup of freshly brewed coffee to the batter will significantly elevate the entire flavor profile.
Sweetened condensed milk vs. evaporated milk
One critical mistake to avoid is confusing sweetened condensed milk with evaporated milk. Despite their similar-looking cans, these ingredients are entirely different. Sweetened condensed milk is thick, rich, and pre-sweetened, providing that luscious moisture and sweetness that makes this cake truly special. In contrast, evaporated milk lacks the sweetness and consistency needed for the perfect better than sex chocolate cake.
Caramel sauce: store-bought or homemade
While store-bought caramel ice cream topping works perfectly for an easy version of this recipe, making homemade caramel sauce takes this dessert to another level. A simple homemade version requires just five ingredients: butter, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. For an interesting variation, try using half caramel and half hot fudge sauce for a delightful flavor contrast.
Cool Whip or fresh whipped cream
The classic better than sex cake recipe easy version uses Cool Whip for convenience. However, homemade whipped cream made from heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract offers a fresher, more authentic taste. Just remember that fresh whipped cream will melt faster than Cool Whip, making it better for immediate consumption.
Heath bars and other topping options
While crushed Heath bars provide that signature toffee crunch, numerous creative alternatives exist:
- Chopped Oreos, Reese’s cups, or Snickers
- Shredded toasted coconut
- Chocolate chips or chopped nuts
- Fresh berries for a lighter touch
Experimenting with different toppings allows you to customize your better than sex cake from scratch to your specific taste preferences.
How to Make Better Than Sex Cake Step-by-Step
Creating this indulgent dessert is straightforward even for novice bakers. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dessert that truly lives up to its name. Let me walk you through the process from start to finish.
1. Bake the chocolate cake
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Mix your devil’s food cake batter according to package directions—or use a homemade chocolate cake recipe if you prefer going from scratch. Pour the prepared batter into your pan and bake according to the time listed on the box, typically around 30-35 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s done.
2. Poke holes and pour in the caramel-milk mix
Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool slightly—just for a minute or two—but work while it’s still warm. Using the handle end of a wooden spoon, poke holes throughout the entire cake. Be careful not to poke all the way to the bottom, as this might cause your mixture to pool underneath instead of soaking into the cake.
Meanwhile, combine one can of sweetened condensed milk with caramel ice cream topping in a bowl and whisk until well blended. Slowly pour this mixture over the warm cake, paying special attention to getting it into the holes. If you pour too quickly, the mixture might run to the edges instead of distributing evenly.
3. Let it soak and cool
Allow the cake to sit at room temperature as the sweet mixture soaks into the holes. This process generally takes about 1-2 hours. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will meld together. During this time, the cake will absorb all that creamy, caramel goodness, creating pockets of sweetness throughout.
4. Add whipped topping and candy
After the cake has cooled completely, spread a generous layer of Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream) across the entire surface. Use an offset spatula to create an even layer or add decorative waves if you’re feeling fancy. Subsequently, sprinkle chopped Heath bars or toffee bits over the top. The amount is entirely up to your preference—more toffee means more crunch!
5. Chill before serving
Finally, refrigerate the completed cake for at least 2 hours before serving. Overnight chilling often yields the best results, as it allows all the flavors to fully develop. When ready to serve, slice into squares directly from the pan and enjoy this heavenly dessert.
Tips for the Best Results Every Time
Even the simplest techniques can dramatically improve your better than sex cake recipe. After making countless versions of this beloved dessert, I’ve discovered several tricks that elevate it from good to absolutely spectacular.
Don’t poke holes too deep
The secret to the perfect better than sex chocolate cake lies in how you create those essential holes. Use the end of a wooden spoon handle or a skewer, but exercise caution—never poke all the way through to the bottom of the cake. Poking halfway down is ideal, otherwise, your delicious mixture will leak out instead of soaking into the cake. Moreover, create plenty of holes throughout the surface. As one experienced baker notes, “More holes mean better distribution of the caramel mixture so don’t skimp on the holes!”
Use milk instead of water in cake mix
For a richer, more luxurious better than sex cake from scratch, substitute milk for water in your cake mix. This simple swap makes the cake extra dense and adds remarkable depth of flavor. The fats and proteins in milk create a softer texture and enhance the overall taste. Any type works—whole milk produces the richest results, yet skim, oat, or almond milk are excellent alternatives. The proteins in milk also interact with leavening agents, helping your cake rise beautifully.
Let the cake cool before topping
Patience truly pays off when making the original better than sex cake recipe. Allow your cake to cool completely before adding the whipped topping—this prevents it from melting or sliding off. Although you should pour the condensed milk and caramel mixture over the cake while it’s still warm (for better absorption), give it proper time to set before adding the final layer. Some bakers recommend chilling for about ten minutes after the caramel step before proceeding.
Make it a day ahead for better flavor
The better than sex cake recipe easy version actually improves with time. Prepare it a day before serving for optimal results. One recipe creator confirms, “The cake does taste better on the second day. All the syrup soaks in and it’s rich and delicious.” Overnight refrigeration allows the flavors to fully develop and merge together. Just be mindful not to make it more than two days in advance, as freshness matters.
Creative Variations and Substitutions
Once you’ve mastered the classic version of this infamous dessert, it’s time to get creative with personalized variations that might make it even better than the original better than sex cake recipe.
Use different cake bases: yellow, white, or spice
The traditional better than sex cake recipe uses chocolate as its foundation, yet surprisingly, yellow or white cake mixes work wonderfully as alternatives. White cake creates a lighter base that allows the caramel and condensed milk flavors to truly shine. Consequently, if chocolate isn’t your preference, these alternatives deliver equally delicious results. Specifically for those who enjoy seasonal flavors, consider using a spice cake mix during fall months for a festive twist on the classic recipe.
Swap Heath bars with Oreos, Snickers, or Reese’s
The possibilities for topping your better than sex chocolate cake are nearly endless. Indeed, while Heath bars provide that classic toffee crunch, numerous alternatives can transform your dessert:
- Chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups for chocolate-peanut butter lovers
- Crushed Oreos for cookie enthusiasts
- Snickers pieces for caramel-nougat goodness
- Shredded toasted coconut for tropical flavor
- Mini chocolate chips for simple chocolate intensity
Obviously, you could even mix multiple toppings for a truly customized creation. Henceforth, consider what flavors pair best with your chosen cake base when selecting toppings.
Try hot fudge instead of caramel
For chocoholics, substituting hot fudge sauce for caramel creates an intensely chocolaty experience. As a matter of fact, you could even use half caramel and half hot fudge for a delightful balance of flavors. For those wondering how to make better than sex cake even more decadent, drizzling additional sauce over the finished cake before serving creates an impressive presentation.
Make a better than sex cake from scratch
Above all, while the better than sex cake recipe easy version calls for boxed mix, making everything from scratch elevates this dessert to gourmet status. Analogous to the difference between store-bought and homemade cookies, a from-scratch chocolate cake provides deeper flavor and moisture. To that end, freshly whipped cream instead of Cool Whip and homemade caramel sauce instead of jarred topping create a truly exceptional better than sex cake from scratch.
Conclusion
This Better Than Sex Cake certainly deserves its attention-grabbing name. Throughout this article, I’ve shared everything you need to create this irresistible dessert that combines chocolate cake, sweet condensed milk, caramel, whipped topping, and crunchy Heath bars into something truly extraordinary.
What makes this recipe special, undoubtedly, lies in its perfect balance of simplicity and decadence. Anyone can master this dessert, whether you choose the quick version with cake mix or decide to craft each component from scratch. The result remains equally impressive either way.
Remember those essential tips for success: poke holes halfway down, substitute milk for water in your cake mix, allow proper cooling time, and prepare your cake a day ahead when possible. These small adjustments make a significant difference in the final result.
Feel free to experiment with your own variations as well. Different cake bases, alternative toppings, or swapping caramel for hot fudge all offer delicious possibilities to customize this dessert to your preferences. The classic recipe provides just a starting point for your culinary creativity.
Many desserts come and go, but this cake has earned its legendary status for good reason. One bite explains everything – the combination of textures and flavors creates a truly memorable experience that keeps people coming back for more. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering, and watch how quickly it disappears alongside requests for the recipe!
FAQs
Q1. Does Better Than Sex Cake require refrigeration? Yes, it’s best to refrigerate this cake. The whipped topping and sweetened condensed milk can spoil at room temperature. Refrigeration also helps maintain the cake’s moisture and overall freshness. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q2. Can Better Than Sex Cake be frozen? Yes, you can freeze Better Than Sex Cake for longer storage. When properly wrapped and stored in an airtight container, it can last up to three months in the freezer. This is a great option if you want to prepare the cake in advance or have leftovers.
Q3. What’s the origin of the name “Better Than Sex Cake”? The cake’s provocative name comes from its incredibly indulgent and satisfying taste. It’s so delicious that some claim it’s better than sex! The dessert has also been known by more modest names, including “Robert Redford Cake,” suggesting it’s as tasty as the actor is handsome.
Q4. What are some creative variations for Better Than Sex Cake? While the classic recipe uses a chocolate cake base and Heath bar topping, you can experiment with different variations. Try using a yellow or white cake mix, or even a spice cake for a seasonal twist. You can also swap the Heath bars for other toppings like Oreos, Snickers, or Reese’s cups for different flavor combinations.
Q5. How far in advance should I make Better Than Sex Cake? For the best flavor, it’s recommended to make Better Than Sex Cake a day ahead of serving. This allows time for the caramel and sweetened condensed milk mixture to fully soak into the cake and for the flavors to meld together. However, it’s best not to make it more than two days in advance to ensure freshness.