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Old-Fashioned Wacky Cake (1930s Recipe)

This classic 1930s recipe, also known as Wacky Cake or Crazy Cake, was created during the Great Depression when ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk were scarce.
Despite its simple, budget-friendly ingredients, this old-fashioned cake is moist, rich, and full of chocolate flavor, topped with a simple cocoa glaze.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert

Ingredients
  

Cake

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 cup water

Frosting

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • Roughly 3 tablespoons water

Instructions
 

For the Cake:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  • In an ungreased 8×8-inch glass or ceramic baking dish, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda. Stir until the dry ingredients are well blended.
  • Make three separate wells in the dry mixture. Pour vegetable oil in one, vanilla extract in another, and white vinegar in the last.
  • Pour the water evenly over everything, then stir the mixture until smooth using a whisk or fork.
  • Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting.

For the Frosting:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
  • Slowly add the water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously until the mixture reaches a smooth, thick, and pourable consistency.
  • Pour the frosting over the cooled cake and spread evenly. Allow it to set before slicing into squares.

Notes

  • If using a metal baking pan, mix all the dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then add the wet ingredients and stir until smooth. Pour into a greased pan and bake as directed.
  • This cake is naturally dairy-free, egg-free, and vegan, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
  • For extra richness, try adding a handful of chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
Keyword 1930s dessert recipe, easy chocolate cake from scratch, eggless chocolate cake, Great Depression cake, homemade wacky cake, no butter cake, old recipes, simple vintage cake
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