Grandma'S Large Chocolate Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A rich, moist chocolate cake with a deep cocoa flavor, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, offering nostalgic homemade comfort and indulgence.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 8 tablespoons cocoa
  • 8 tablespoons shortening
  • 2 teaspoons soda
  • 3 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • dash of salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups cold water

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and stir well until combined.
  2. Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder in place of regular cocoa. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter can be a suitable substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients to avoid lumps. If you prefer a lighter cake, you can separate the egg whites and beat them until fluffy, folding them in at the end.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own but can be elevated with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. For added decadence, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It pairs beautifully with Quick And Delicious Beer Bread for a more substantial dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh, and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, which can last up to a week. To reheat, slice and microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma'S Large Chocolate Cake contains roughly 357 calories, with 5g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 831mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).

357 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5g 10% DV
Total Fat 13.3g 17% DV
Carbs 50.7g 18% DV
Fiber 3.5g 12% DV
Sugar 1.3g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 831.4mg 36% DV
Potassium 1663.9mg 35% DV
Cholesterol 13mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 29.3mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 15mg 17% DV
Calcium 63mg 5% DV
Iron 2.3mg 13% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg 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 type of flour for this cake?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter texture. However, if you prefer a whole grain option, whole wheat flour can also work but may result in a denser cake. Just be mindful of adjusting the liquid slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

What can I do if my cake is too dry?

If your cake turns out dry, it's likely due to overbaking. To salvage it, try serving with a simple syrup or chocolate ganache poured over the top to add moisture. You can also serve it with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream, which adds creaminess and balances the texture.

How can I make this cake more chocolatey?

To increase the chocolate flavor, you can add chocolate chips to the batter or incorporate a chocolate frosting. Additionally, using espresso powder mixed into the batter can enhance the chocolate taste without making the cake taste like coffee.

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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