Stir Crazy Wacky Cake
A rich, moist wacky cake with chocolate flavor, made with coffee and simple pantry ingredients, perfect for family gatherings or casual desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put flour, sugar, cocoa, soda, and salt into an ungreased 13 x 9 x 2-inch metal baking dish.
- Stir with a fork to mix well.
- Form 3 wells in the mixture.
- Pour oil into one well, vinegar into another, and vanilla into the last.
- Pour cold coffee or water over all ingredients and stir with a fork until mixed well.
- Do not overbeat.
- Combine remaining sugar and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Let cool slightly before serving; great with German chocolate frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you want to reduce sugar, you can decrease the sugar by one-third without a significant impact on texture. You can also substitute almond milk for the cold coffee or water for a different flavor. To add some texture, try mixing in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with German chocolate frosting for an indulgent treat. You can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving with a side of Tiny'S Slaw for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stir Crazy Wacky Cake contains roughly 360 calories, with 9g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 659mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
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?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may result in a denser cake. If you want a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
What can I use instead of coffee?
If you prefer not to use coffee, you can easily substitute it with water or another liquid such as almond milk or coconut milk. This will slightly alter the flavor but will still yield a delicious cake.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Baking times may vary, so start checking around the 35-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
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).