Chocolate Depression Cake

Chocolate Depression Cake

This chocolate depression cake is also known as chocolate crazy cake, chocolate wacky cake, or chocolate surprise cake. It’s made without eggs, milk, or butter, which is surprising, crazy, and wacky! The cake rises using baking soda and vinegar, eliminating the need for eggs.

The name “Depression” refers to The Great Depression, not to imply it will cure depression. ???? Given current ingredient shortages, this recipe is timely, as it originated during a period of limited supplies. Despite the absence of eggs, milk, and butter, this cake is rich and chocolatey. A cake without butter? How wacky!

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups sugar
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon coffee (optional)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt

For the frosting:

• 2 1/2 – 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt (optional)

How To Make Chocolate Depression Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease two 9-inch cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the water, oil, cider vinegar, coffee (if using), and vanilla extract. Whisk until no lumps remain.
4. Pour the mixture evenly into the greased cake pans.
5. Bake for 24-26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

How To Make Frosting

1. While the cake bakes, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl or mixer, whisk together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt (if using).
2. Add the water, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar for a thicker frosting or more water for a thinner frosting.
3. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool before frosting.

Enjoy your rich and chocolatey Chocolate Depression Cake!