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Easy Chocolate Depression Cake

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This Easy Chocolate Depression Cake (Wacky Cake) is a moist, rich, and fluffy chocolate cake made without eggs, milk, or butter. Born out of the Great Depression, this vegan-friendly dessert comes together right in the pan and delivers big chocolate flavor with minimal ingredients.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water (or brewed coffee for richer flavor)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In an ungreased 8-inch square baking pan, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well with a fork.
  3. Create three wells in the dry mixture for the vinegar, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil.
  4. Pour vinegar, vanilla, and oil into their respective wells.
  5. Pour water (or coffee) over the entire mixture and stir with a fork until well combined and smooth.
  6. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow to cool completely before slicing. Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with frosting.

Notes

  • Use brewed coffee instead of water for a deeper chocolate flavor.
  • Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture.
  • This cake stays moist for days, making it perfect for make-ahead desserts.
  • Great as a base for frosting or ganache, or served plain with fruit.
  • Recipe is naturally vegan and budget-friendly.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/easy-chocolate-depression-cake/