This classic Depression-era dessert, known as Crazy Cake or Wacky Cake, is a marvel of simplicity and flavor. Despite having no eggs, butter, or milk, it delivers a rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey experience that rivals any traditional cake. The secret lies in the reaction between vinegar and baking soda, which creates a tender crumb without the need for creaming or beating. Made directly in the baking pan, it requires minimal cleanup and uses pantry staples you likely already have. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dusted with powdered sugar for a comforting treat that feels like a hug from the past. Its perfect for weeknight desserts, potlucks, or when you crave chocolate but want to keep things easy.
Stir Crazy Cake (Wacky Cake
Description
This classic Depression-era dessert, known as Crazy Cake or Wacky Cake, is a marvel of simplicity and flavor. Despite having no eggs, butter, or milk, it delivers a rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey experience that rivals any traditional cake. The secret lies in the reaction between vinegar and baking soda, which creates a tender crumb without the need for creaming or beating. Made directly in the baking pan, it requires minimal cleanup and uses pantry staples you likely already have. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dusted with powdered sugar for a comforting treat that feels like a hug from the past. Its perfect for weeknight desserts, potlucks, or when you crave chocolate but want to keep things easy.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350F (175C).
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Place 2 1/2 cups flour, 1 1/2 cups sugar, cocoa, baking soda, and salt directly into an ungreased 9x13-inch metal baking pan.
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Stir the dry ingredients together with a fork until just combined.
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Use the back of a spoon or fork to create three distinct wells in the dry mixture.
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Pour the vegetable oil into one well, the vinegar into a second well, and the vanilla extract into the third well.
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Pour the cold coffee (or water) over the entire surface of the pan.
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Stir everything together with a fork until the batter is smooth and no dry flour remains. Do not beat; mix gently.
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In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the batter.
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Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool in the pan on a wire rack before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 245kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8.5g14%
- Saturated Fat 1.5g8%
- Sodium 210mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 2.5g10%
- Sugars 22g
- Protein 3g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
