Chocolate Wonder Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 9 Cuisine: American

A rich, moist chocolate cake with simple ingredients, perfect for any occasion. Its deep cocoa flavor and easy preparation make it a favorite for all chocolate lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 c. flour
  • 1 c. sugar
  • 3 tsp. cocoa
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. soda
  • 1 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 6 Tbsp. oil
  • 3 tsp. vanilla
  • 1 c. cold water

Instructions

  1. Sift flour, sugar, cocoa, salt, and soda into a 9-inch square ungreased pan.
  2. Make 3 holes in the dry ingredients.
  3. Pour vinegar, oil, and vanilla into the 3 holes equally.
  4. Pour 1 cup of cold water over the mixture.
  5. Stir well with a fork until all lumps are out.
  6. Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
  7. Cool and frost the cake.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you're out of vinegar, lemon juice can be a good substitute. Ensure you mix well to avoid lumps, and try not to overmix as it can affect the cake's texture. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. This cake can be made vegan by substituting the oil with applesauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chocolate Wonder Cake plain or topped with a rich chocolate frosting. It pairs beautifully with Canned Pears for a refreshing contrast. Consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of Crunchy Apple Raisin Salad to complement the dessert. This cake also makes for a great addition to any gathering or potluck.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Chocolate Wonder Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, ensuring it’s well covered to prevent drying out. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a fudgy treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chocolate Wonder Cake contains roughly 427 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 784mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).

427 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 40.5g 52% DV
Carbs 14g 5% DV
Fiber 1g 3% DV
Sugar 4.1g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 784.3mg 34% DV
Potassium 90.2mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 0.6mg 1% DV
Calcium 13.5mg 1% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pan size for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different pan size, but be aware that baking times may vary. A larger pan will result in a thinner cake and might bake faster. Conversely, a smaller pan will yield a thicker cake that may require additional baking time. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness with a toothpick.

Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the Chocolate Wonder Cake a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Frost it just before serving to keep the frosting fresh and intact.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes, adding nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture of the cake. Fold in about 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it can affect the cake's rise.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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