Ingredients
1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (dairy-free option available)
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup (30g) non-alkalized cocoa powder
1 tsp alcohol-free vanilla extract (or regular vanilla if alcohol-free not available)
1/2 cup (60g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, for optional drizzle
Instructions
Line 8x8x2-inch baking dish with parchment paper
Mix 1/4 cup cocoa powder with 2 tbsp hot water; spread on dish sides
Pack cake mix into a large mixing bowl
Add cubed butter; use hands to mix until crumbly
Spread mixture into prepared dish and press with a flat glass
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine remaining cocoa powder, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla
Microwave in 30-second intervals until smooth, then cool slightly
Pour frosting over base and spread evenly
Chill for 2 hours
Melt chocolate chips in microwave on 50% power, then drizzle (optional)
Cut into 1-1/2 inch squares before serving
Notes
Use room-temperature butter for frosting to maintain smooth texture
Press base firmly for even thickness
Add 1/4 cup peanut butter to frosting mixture for salted-caramel variation
- Prep Time: 20
- Category: Summer Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 small slice (approx. 1.5in x 1.5in x 0.75in)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg