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Depression Cake: A Sweet Slice of Comfort

Depression Cake
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A surprisingly moist and flavorful chocolate cake made without eggs, butter, or milk – born from resourcefulness during the Great Depression. Also known as ‘Wacky Cake’ or ‘Crazy Cake’.

  • Author: ranime
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes (including cooling)
  • Yield: 9 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

    • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

    • 1 cup granulated sugar

    • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

    • 1 teaspoon baking soda

    • 1/2 teaspoon salt

    • 1 cup water

    • 1/3 cup vegetable oil

    • 1 tablespoon white vinegar

    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    • 1 cup powdered sugar

    • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frosting)

    • Salt (one pinch)

    • 2 tablespoons hot water (add an additional tablespoon if necessary)

    • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8″ or 9×9″ square baking pan.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In the baking pan, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt directly in the pan (no bowl needed!).
  3. Make wells: Create three small wells in the dry mixture. Pour vinegar in one, vanilla in another, and oil in the third.
  4. Add water: Pour water over everything and stir vigorously with a fork until completely combined (about 1-2 minutes).
  5. Optional add-ins: Stir in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
  6. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Cool: Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

  • No-mess method: Mix directly in the baking pan to save dishes
  • Vinegar reacts with baking soda to create lift (don’t substitute)
  • For cupcakes: Bake 18-20 minutes in lined muffin tin
  • Storage: Keeps well at room temperature for 3 days

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesfood.org/depression-cake-recipe-delicious-and-easy/