Wacky Cake Recipe a Chocolate Depression Cake

This wacky cake is a chocolate cake from the depression era. This traditional cake recipe holds a special place in many kitchens because it reminds us of simpler times. The fact that it uses common ingredients, and no eggs or dairy is a testament to the creativity of home bakers during the Great Depression era. It’s truly a great recipe that has stood the test of time.

Prep Time10

Cook Time35

Total Time45

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: budget recipe, cake recipe, dessert recipe, holiday dessert, summer dessert, sweet snack, Valentine's Dessert

Servings: servings, 8 x 8 Cake Pan

Calories: 168kcal

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Kitchen Essentials

Round Cake Pan

Bundt Pan

Mixing Bowls

Ingredients

1 ½ Cups All-Purpose Flour
1 Cup White Sugar
4 Tablespoons Cocoa Powder
1 Teaspoon Baking Soda
½ Teaspoon Salt
1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1 Tablespoons White Vinegar
5 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil or canola oil
1 Cup Water room temperature

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
In a large bowl, add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Use a fork to combine them evenly.
1 ½ Cups All-Purpose Flour, 1 Cup White Sugar, 4 Tablespoons Cocoa Powder, 1 Teaspoon Baking Soda, ½ Teaspoon Salt
Make three wells in the dry flour mixture: a larger hole for the vegetable oil, and two smaller ones for the vanilla extract and white vinegar.
1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract, 1 Tablespoons White Vinegar, 5 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil, 1 Cup Water
Pour water over the entire mixture and stir until smooth, creating a uniform cake batter.
Pour the cake mixture in a prepared baking pan.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cooked cake cool completely before adding frosting.

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Notes

Vanilla Frosting

2 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp softened butter or coconut oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
2-3 tbsp milk or non-dairy alternative (room temperature)

Using a handheld mixer, mix the ingredients together in a separate bowl until smooth. Spread evenly over the top of the cake for a sweet contrast to the chocolate.

Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

½ cup softened butter
2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup cocoa powder
2-3 tbsp milk or cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Beat all ingredients together until fluffy. For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle chocolate chips over the even layer of frosting.

Nutrition