Grandmother'S Chocolate Picnic Cake
A rich, moist chocolate cake with a tender crumb, perfect for picnics or casual gatherings, blending deep chocolate flavor with a classic homemade touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together butter and sugar.
- Mix baking soda and sour cream.
- Add eggs, sour cream mixture, and vanilla to the butter and sugar.
- Dissolve chocolate in hot water.
- Add salt to the flour.
- Alternately stir in flour mixture and chocolate into the creamed mixture.
- Pour batter into a 9 x 13-inch pan and bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 30 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using high-quality cocoa powder. If you don't have sour cream, plain yogurt can be a great substitute. For a richer taste, you can add a splash of brewed coffee to the chocolate mixture. Be careful not to overmix once you add the flour; this will keep your cake light and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own but can be dressed up with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside a slice of Heaven On A Plate Chocolate Pie for an indulgent dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze the cake. If frozen, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother'S Chocolate Picnic Cake contains roughly 9 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 size pan for this cake?
Yes, you can use different pan sizes, but baking times may vary. If you use a smaller pan, check for doneness a few minutes earlier. Conversely, a larger pan may require additional baking time. Always use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
What can I add to the cake for extra flavor?
You can fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or even fruit like raspberries for added flavor and texture. A teaspoon of espresso powder can also enhance the chocolate flavor significantly. These additions can make your Grandmother's Chocolate Picnic Cake even more delightful.
Is this cake suitable for special diets?
This recipe contains dairy and eggs, making it unsuitable for strict vegan diets. However, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs to make it more inclusive for vegetarian recipes. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary needs.
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).