If you’ve ever dined at Portillo’s, you might have heard people rave about their chocolate cake—a dessert so rich, moist, and indulgent that it has gained a cult following. But does Portillo’s still have chocolate cake, and what makes it so special?
Whether you’re craving a slice, wondering about the secret ingredient, or looking for delivery options, this guide will answer all your questions. We’ll explore where to buy it, how much it costs, and even if you can recreate the famous Portillo’s chocolate cake at home. Let’s dive in!
Yes, Portillo’s Has Chocolate Cake—Here’s Why It’s So Popular
If you’ve ever heard someone rave about Portillo’s chocolate cake, you might wonder what makes it so special. This iconic dessert has become one of the most popular menu items at Portillo’s, with fans claiming it’s one of the best chocolate cakes ever. But what sets it apart from other cakes? Let’s take a closer look.
What Makes Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Special?
Portillo’s chocolate cake isn’t just any ordinary dessert—it’s a fan favorite for a reason. It’s known for its ultra-moist texture, rich chocolate flavor, and creamy frosting. Unlike other cakes that can be too dry or overly sweet, Portillo’s version strikes the perfect balance between light and decadent, making it irresistible to chocolate lovers.
Another reason for its popularity is its simplicity. While many gourmet cakes are made with complex ingredients, Portillo’s chocolate cake keeps it classic—just a soft, fluffy chocolate sponge paired with smooth, fudgy frosting. This timeless combination has won over customers of all ages.
The Secret Ingredient Behind the Flavor
Rumors have swirled for years about what makes Portillo’s chocolate cake so moist and delicious. Some believe the restaurant uses mayonnaise as a secret ingredient—yes, mayonnaise! While this might sound unusual, mayonnaise actually enhances the cake’s texture, making it incredibly soft and rich without adding an overwhelming taste.
Another key factor is the quality of ingredients. Portillo’s doesn’t use fancy or exotic flavors; instead, it relies on high-quality cocoa, fresh dairy, and just the right amount of sugar to achieve that perfectly balanced taste.
How Portillo’s Cake Compares to Other Chocolate Cakes
Portillo’s chocolate cake often gets compared to other famous bakery-style cakes, but it consistently stands out for its homemade taste and affordability. While high-end bakeries may charge a premium for gourmet chocolate cakes, Portillo’s offers a generous slice (or even a whole cake) at a reasonable price, making it accessible for everyone.
Another unique feature is its versatility—it’s not just a dessert you order at the restaurant. Many people buy whole Portillo’s chocolate cakes for birthday parties, celebrations, and special occasions. Some even turn it into the famous Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Shake, blending a slice of cake into a creamy, chocolatey milkshake!
In short, Portillo’s chocolate cake isn’t just a menu item—it’s a tradition. Whether you enjoy it by the slice, order a whole cake for a gathering, or blend it into a shake, this dessert continues to win hearts across the country.
Where Can You Buy Portillo’s Chocolate Cake?
If you’re craving a slice of Portillo’s famous chocolate cake, you’ll be happy to know that it’s widely available at Portillo’s locations, online, and through delivery services. Whether you want to enjoy it fresh at the restaurant, order it for pickup, or have it delivered straight to your door, there are plenty of ways to get your hands on this indulgent dessert.
Ordering at a Portillo’s Restaurant
The easiest and most traditional way to get Portillo’s chocolate cake is by visiting one of their restaurants. Portillo’s has locations across the United States, with a strong presence in Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, California, Florida, and Texas, among other states.
When dining in, you can order a single slice to enjoy after your meal or go all out and purchase a whole cake to take home. Many customers also grab a cake for birthday parties, family gatherings, and celebrations, thanks to its rich flavor and crowd-pleasing appeal.
If you’re unsure whether your local Portillo’s has it in stock, you can check their official website or call ahead to confirm availability.
Online Ordering and Delivery Services
Don’t live near a Portillo’s location? No problem! Portillo’s offers several ways to order chocolate cake online and get it delivered straight to your doorstep.
Here are some options:
- Portillo’s Website: You can order directly through Portillo’s online ordering platform for pickup or delivery, depending on your location.
- Delivery Apps: Services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub often list Portillo’s as a restaurant partner, allowing you to get a slice (or a whole cake) delivered within minutes.
- Goldbelly Nationwide Shipping: If you’re outside of Portillo’s regular delivery areas, you can order a frozen whole chocolate cake through Goldbelly, which ships Portillo’s desserts nationwide. This is a great option if you’re looking to enjoy their signature cake outside of states where Portillo’s has physical locations.
Availability in Different Locations
While Portillo’s chocolate cake is widely available at most locations, availability can sometimes vary. Here are a few key factors that could affect your ability to purchase it:
- Restaurant Demand: Some high-traffic locations may sell out of chocolate cake quickly, especially during peak hours, weekends, or holidays.
- Seasonal Promotions: Portillo’s occasionally runs limited-time dessert specials, so some locations may temporarily feature other desserts in addition to their classic chocolate cake.
- Menu Differences: While most Portillo’s locations carry the famous chocolate cake, menu options can vary slightly based on regional preferences.
If you’re planning to buy a whole cake for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to pre-order online or call ahead to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
No matter where you are, Portillo’s makes it easy to satisfy your chocolate cake cravings. Whether you’re stopping by a restaurant, ordering online for pickup or delivery, or even shipping a cake nationwide, you have plenty of ways to enjoy this legendary dessert.
So next time you’re wondering, “Where can I buy Portillo’s chocolate cake?”, you’ll know exactly where to look!
How Much Does Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Cost?
One of the best things about Portillo’s famous chocolate cake—besides its rich, moist, and decadent flavor—is that it’s reasonably priced for such a high-quality dessert. Whether you’re grabbing a single slice to satisfy a craving or ordering a whole cake for a special occasion, Portillo’s offers great value compared to many other bakery-style chocolate cakes.
Price Breakdown: Slice vs. Whole Cake
The cost of Portillo’s chocolate cake varies slightly depending on location, but here’s a general price range based on recent menu listings:
- Single Slice: Around $3.99 – $4.29
- Whole Chocolate Cake: Around $24.99 – $29.99
A single slice is a great choice if you’re dining in and just want a small treat, while a whole cake is perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or even just to keep at home for multiple servings.
Why Is Portillo’s Chocolate Cake So Affordable?
Compared to gourmet bakery cakes, which can easily cost $40 to $60 for a similar-sized cake, Portillo’s chocolate cake is considered a bargain for its quality. Here’s why it’s such a great deal:
- Restaurant-Style Pricing: Since Portillo’s operates as a fast-casual restaurant, their pricing is generally more affordable than specialty bakeries.
- Simple Yet Delicious Ingredients: Instead of using expensive gourmet chocolates or complex flavor infusions, Portillo’s sticks to classic, high-quality ingredients, keeping costs down while maintaining exceptional taste.
- High Volume Production: With numerous locations and a high demand for their chocolate cake, Portillo’s can keep prices low by producing cakes in bulk.
Does the Price Change for Delivery or Shipping?
If you’re ordering Portillo’s chocolate cake through delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub, you may see slightly higher prices due to service fees and delivery markups. Additionally, some locations might have small price variations based on regional costs.
For nationwide shipping via Goldbelly, expect to pay significantly more. The price for a shipped frozen whole cake is usually around $65-$75, which includes packaging, handling, and delivery fees. While this is a premium price, it’s a great option for Portillo’s fans who live outside of restaurant locations and still want to enjoy their legendary chocolate cake.
Are There Any Discounts or Promotions?
Portillo’s occasionally offers special deals and discounts, including:
- Birthday Freebies: Some customers report receiving a free slice of chocolate cake when signing up for Portillo’s birthday rewards program.
- Cake Shake Specials: Portillo’s sometimes runs promotions where you can get a Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Shake for a discounted price.
- Limited-Time Offers: While rare, Portillo’s may offer bundle deals or holiday specials where you can purchase cakes at a lower price.
If you’re looking to save money, it’s worth checking the Portillo’s website or signing up for their email list to stay updated on any discounts.
Final Thoughts
At around $25-$30 for a whole cake and under $5 for a slice, Portillo’s chocolate cake is one of the best value desserts you can buy. Whether you’re picking one up in-store, having it delivered, or even ordering it nationwide, this fan-favorite cake is an affordable indulgence that’s well worth every penny.
So, next time you’re craving something rich, chocolatey, and satisfying, you know exactly how much to budget for Portillo’s legendary chocolate cake!
Can You Make Portillo’s Chocolate Cake at Home?
If you love Portillo’s famous chocolate cake but don’t have a location nearby—or simply want to try baking it yourself—you’re in luck! Many home bakers have tried to replicate the recipe, and while Portillo’s keeps their official recipe a secret, there are some surprisingly easy and accurate copycat recipes you can make at home.
What Makes Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Special?
Before diving into how to make it, let’s take a look at what sets Portillo’s chocolate cake apart from others:
- Ultra Moist Texture – The cake is incredibly soft and fluffy, thanks to a unique ingredient many home bakers wouldn’t expect.
- Rich, Decadent Chocolate Flavor – The combination of chocolate cake mix and frosting creates a perfect balance of sweetness and cocoa goodness.
- Silky, Smooth Chocolate Frosting – Instead of a thick buttercream, Portillo’s uses a light, creamy chocolate frosting that enhances the cake’s softness.
The Secret Ingredient: Mayonnaise!
One of the biggest secrets behind Portillo’s chocolate cake is mayonnaise. Yes, you read that right! Instead of using traditional oil or butter, mayonnaise helps create an extra-moist texture and adds a subtle richness to the cake without making it taste like mayo.
Easy Copycat Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Recipe
If you want to make a Portillo’s-style chocolate cake at home, follow this simple recipe that gets incredibly close to the real thing!
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 1 box Devil’s Food Chocolate Cake Mix (Duncan Hines or similar)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s or Best Foods recommended)
- 1 cup water
- 3 large eggs
For the frosting:
- 1 container (16 oz) store-bought chocolate frosting (such as Betty Crocker Rich & Creamy Chocolate)
- Optional: Add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream to make the frosting extra smooth
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, mayonnaise, water, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost the cake generously with the store-bought frosting, smoothing it over the layers for that classic Portillo’s look.
- Slice and enjoy!
How Close Is This to the Real Portillo’s Cake?
Many people who have tried this copycat recipe say it’s shockingly similar to the real thing. The moist texture, deep chocolate flavor, and creamy frosting make it a great alternative if you can’t visit a Portillo’s location.
However, for the absolute best results, make sure to:
– Use a Devil’s Food cake mix – This mimics the signature flavor of Portillo’s cake.
– Don’t skip the mayonnaise – It’s the secret to the extra-moist texture.
– Use store-bought frosting – Portillo’s uses a simple, pre-made chocolate frosting instead of homemade buttercream.
Final Thoughts
While nothing beats the real thing, making it at home is a fun and delicious way to enjoy this iconic dessert anytime. With just four simple ingredients, you can recreate the rich, moist, and indulgent flavor that has made this cake a favorite among Portillo’s fans.
So, next time you’re craving a slice, why not give this copycat recipe a try? It might just become your go-to homemade chocolate cake!
Other Chocolate Desserts You Can Try at Portillo’s
While is undeniably the star of the dessert menu, it’s not the only delicious chocolate treat they offer. If you’re a chocolate lover looking to explore other options, Portillo’s has a few more indulgent desserts that are just as satisfying. Whether you want a drinkable twist on their famous cake or a rich, creamy classic, there’s something for every sweet tooth.
1. Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Shake
If you love Portillo’s chocolate cake but want a more drinkable version, the Chocolate Cake Shake is a must-try. This iconic shake takes a slice of their legendary chocolate cake and blends it with vanilla ice cream to create an ultra-thick, rich, and creamy milkshake.
What Makes It So Special?
Real cake blended into the shake – It’s not just chocolate-flavored; it’s made with actual pieces of cake, giving it an incredibly dense and satisfying texture.
Perfect balance of flavors – The combination of moist cake, frosting, and smooth vanilla ice cream creates a sweet, creamy, and chocolate-packed experience.
Customizable – You can ask for extra chocolate syrup or even mix it with another shake flavor for a unique twist.
📌 Pro Tip: Because the shake is so thick, it’s best enjoyed with a spoon rather than a straw!
2. Portillo’s Chocolate Éclair Cake
If you love the combination of chocolate and vanilla, the Chocolate Éclair Cake is another dessert to add to your must-try list. This chilled, no-bake treat is made with layers of:
Vanilla custard or pudding
Soft graham crackers
Chocolate frosting on top
Why People Love It
- Light and creamy – Unlike the rich chocolate cake, the éclair cake has a smooth, mousse-like texture.
- Perfect for summer – Since it’s served cold, it’s a great dessert to enjoy on a hot day.
- Great for sharing – The layered texture makes it easy to slice and serve.
3. Hot Fudge Sundae
If you love classic ice cream desserts, Portillo’s Hot Fudge Sundae is a simple yet satisfying option. This dessert features:
🍦 Creamy vanilla soft serve
🍫 Warm hot fudge drizzled on top
🍒 A cherry for the perfect finishing touch
Why You Should Try It
- Warm + cold contrast – The hot fudge melts into the cold vanilla ice cream, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures.
- Customizable – Add extra fudge, nuts, or whipped cream for an even more indulgent treat.
- Less filling – If you’re looking for a lighter chocolate dessert compared to the cake, this is a great alternative.
📌 Pro Tip: Ask for extra hot fudge if you want an even richer chocolate flavor!
4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries (Seasonal)
Though not available year-round, Portillo’s sometimes offers chocolate-dipped strawberries during special occasions like Valentine’s Day. These fresh, juicy strawberries are coated in a thick layer of rich chocolate, making them a perfect romantic or festive treat.
Why They’re Worth Trying
- Fresh and sweet – The contrast between the tart strawberry and sweet chocolate is delicious.
- Not as heavy – If you’re looking for a lighter chocolate dessert, this is a great alternative to cake or shakes.
- Great for gifting – Many customers buy these as a special treat for loved ones during holidays.
📌 Availability: Since these are seasonal, check with your local Portillo’s around February to see if they’re offering them!
Final Thoughts
While it is their most famous dessert, their menu has other chocolate treats that are just as indulgent and worth trying. Whether you go for the Chocolate Cake Shake, the creamy Chocolate Éclair Cake, a classic Hot Fudge Sundae, or even seasonal chocolate-dipped strawberries, there’s a chocolate fix for every craving.
So next time you visit Portillo’s, why not switch things up and try one of these delicious chocolate desserts? You might just find a new favorite! 🍫✨
Chef’s Note: A Chocolate Lover’s Paradise at Portillo’s
As a chef, I know that a great dessert is more than just sugar and chocolate—it’s about creating a moment of indulgence. Portillo’s has mastered this art with its iconic Chocolate Cake, but it doesn’t stop there. From the decadent Chocolate Cake Shake to the creamy Chocolate Éclair Cake and the simple yet satisfying Hot Fudge Sundae, there’s something for every chocolate craving.
If you’re a true chocolate lover, don’t be afraid to explore beyond the classic cake. Try a new dessert, mix things up, and savor every bite—because at Portillo’s, dessert is always worth it. 🍫✨
Happy indulging! – Chef’s Recommendation 🍽️