Rich and Moist Chocolate Depression Cake Recipe
Introduction
Chocolate Depression Cake is a simple, no-fuss dessert that’s perfect when you’re short on ingredients but craving something sweet and chocolaty. This classic recipe uses pantry staples and requires no eggs or butter, making it an easy, budget-friendly treat.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Step 3: Add the oil, vinegar, vanilla extract, and water to the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.
- Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Step 5: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 6: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, try adding a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the batter.
- Replace white vinegar with apple cider vinegar if preferred, it won’t affect the taste much.
- Top with powdered sugar, a simple glaze, or whipped cream for an extra treat.
- You can substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier texture.
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it longer, refrigerate for up to a week, but allow it to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving. This cake also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Does Chocolate Depression Cake require eggs?
No, this cake is specifically made without eggs, making it a great option for egg-free baking.
Can I use different types of vinegar?
Yes, white vinegar is traditional, but apple cider vinegar works well too and adds a subtle fruity note without changing the texture.
PrintRich and Moist Chocolate Depression Cake Recipe
A simple and nostalgic Chocolate Depression Cake that requires basic pantry ingredients and no eggs or dairy. Perfect for an easy, moist chocolate dessert with a rich cocoa flavor, baked in one pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure the cake does not stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and sugar to combine evenly and aerate the flour for a lighter cake texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the oil, vinegar, water, and vanilla extract if using. Stir gently until the batter is smooth and free of lumps, but do not overmix.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- This cake is egg-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with certain dietary restrictions.
- The vinegar reacts with the baking soda (if included) to help the cake rise, so do not substitute vinegar with lemon juice entirely without adjusting other ingredients.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder, but adjust baking soda accordingly if added.
- This cake pairs well with a dusting of powdered sugar, chocolate frosting, or fresh berries for added flavor.
Keywords: Chocolate Depression Cake, egg-free chocolate cake, dairy-free cake, easy chocolate cake, vintage recipes
