The Heartfelt Story Behind Gregory Leon’s Devil’s Food Cake Recipe

The Heartfelt Story Behind Gregory Leon’s Devil’s Food Cake Recipe

Devil’s food cake has captivated chocolate enthusiasts since its inception in the early 20th century. This decadent dessert stands out not just for its rich flavor, but also for the personal connections it evokes. One such connection is held by Gregory Leon, a James Beard Award-nominated chef who owns the acclaimed Amilinda restaurant in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

For Leon, devil’s food cake is more than a treat; it carries a profound emotional significance. Each year, he bakes this cake on August 1, a date that marks both his birthday and the anniversary of his restaurant’s opening. This tradition serves as a poignant tribute to his mother, who lovingly made the cake for him every birthday until her untimely passing when he was just 19.

In Leon’s own words, he cherishes the memories tied to this cake. This simple act of baking allows him to reconnect with his mother’s care and love. It embodies a classic recipe that continues to hold a special place in his heart.

A Journey from Venezuela to Milwaukee

Leon spent his formative years in Venezuela, where he developed a passion for culinary arts. In 2012, after nearly two decades in San Francisco, he found himself searching for a new place to call home. With dreams of culinary ownership in mind, he recognized that the ever-rising costs of California made that goal elusive.

Thus, he packed his belongings and moved to Milwaukee to visit a friend. Initially, Milwaukee was not on his radar, but he quickly fell in love with the city’s charm and decided to settle there permanently, eventually opening Amilinda in 2015.

Setting Roots in a New Culinary Landscape

Leon’s Amilinda draws inspiration from the vibrant flavors of Spain and Portugal, featuring locally sourced ingredients complemented by elements from the Iberian Peninsula. The menu, which changes weekly, showcases an array of dishes that reflect his rich cultural background while also catering to diverse palates.

His culinary contributions have not gone unnoticed. Leon is a three-time James Beard Award nominee, recognized as a finalist for best chef in the Midwest for 2022 and 2023, and a semifinalist for outstanding chef in 2024. Nevertheless, he emphasizes that no accolade can compare to the significance of his mother’s devil’s food cake recipe.

A Classic Recipe that Stands the Test of Time

According to Leon, his mother’s recipe is a testament to simplicity and authenticity. He describes the cake as incredible, stating that it doesn’t require extravagant decorations or embellishments. Its essence lies in the pure richness of the chocolate, making it a timeless dessert that transcends trends.

This beloved recipe includes the following ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• ½ cup margarine
• ⅔ cup cocoa
• 2 cups sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1½ cups milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Devil’s Food Cake

To prepare this classic devil’s food cake, follow these steps:

1. In a bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate large bowl, cream the margarine and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs gradually while continuing to mix.
3. Alternately add the dry mixture and milk to the creamed mixture until fully blended. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Divide the batter evenly into two greased 8-inch or 9-inch baking pans.
5. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 30 minutes. Allow cooling in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing.

To make the frosting, gather the following ingredients:

• ½ cup margarine
• 2-3 tablespoons warm milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• 2 cups powdered sugar

For the frosting, cream the margarine and gradually add the other ingredients until smooth and spreadable. Once your cake layers are cooled, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake as desired.

Gregory Leon’s devil’s food cake recipe is a cherished family heirloom, a delicious tribute to his mother’s baking legacy. The cake may be simple, but it carries a depth of love and tradition that resonates deeply with him.

Celebrating Tradition Through Culinary Heritage

In an age where food trends come and go, the enduring nature of this recipe serves a dual purpose. Not only does it preserve a personal connection to family, but it also offers a delicious way to celebrate life’s milestones. Whether served at a birthday celebration or enjoyed quietly at home, this devil’s food cake evokes warmth, nostalgia, and the importance of cherishing our loved ones through food.

As aspiring bakers and seasoned chefs alike recreate Leon’s beloved cake, they unearth stories of their own families, memories tied to the kitchen, and the comfort that comes with sharing something meaningful with others. The act of baking becomes more than mixing ingredients; it transforms into a celebration of heritage, love, and the unforgettable bonds we share.