Grandma Jones' Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake
A rich, moist chocolate cake with classic flavors of cocoa and vanilla, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions where everyone loves a homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the shortening and sugar until well combined.
- Add the egg and sour milk; beat until smooth.
- Mix in the dry ingredients: flour, soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the boiling water, stirring well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into a prepared 9x9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you don't have sour milk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 teaspoon of vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Ensure your shortening is at room temperature for easier creaming, and don't skip the boiling water step, as it helps to create a moist cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma Jones' Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat. You can also drizzle chocolate sauce over the top for an extra touch or serve alongside fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Jones' Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake contains roughly 286 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and potassium (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 substitute the shortening in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or margarine. This will add a slightly different flavor and texture to the cake, making it richer. If you're looking for a healthier option, coconut oil or even applesauce could work, but it may affect the final result.
What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
If your cake sinks in the middle, it may be due to underbaking or overmixing the batter. Ensure you bake until a toothpick comes out clean and avoid mixing the batter too much after adding the flour. Also, make sure your oven is preheated properly to maintain the right temperature throughout the baking process.
How can I enhance the chocolate flavor of this cake?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the boiling water before mixing it into the batter. This will intensify the chocolate taste without making the cake taste like coffee. Additionally, using high-quality cocoa powder can also make a significant difference in flavor.
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).