Susan'S Wacky Cake
A moist, rich chocolate cake with simple ingredients, perfect for quick baking and satisfying chocolate cravings with a nostalgic homemade touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In the sifter, combine the flour, cocoa, sugar, and salt.
- Sift into a greased 9 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Make three holes in the dry mixture.
- Into one hole, pour the oil; into the next, the vinegar; into the last, the vanilla.
- Pour the cold water over it.
- Beat with a spoon until it's nearly smooth and you can't see any more flour.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the flour is well sifted and avoid over-mixing the batter. If you don't have cocoa powder, you can use carob powder as a substitute. To make it gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This recipe is also great for experimenting with different flavors; consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this moist cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with Jean'S Trifle for a dessert spread. For a festive touch, top with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm it in an oven at 300°F for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Susan'S Wacky Cake contains roughly 151 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1772mg per serving (77% 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 make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake this cake a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Just be sure to frost or serve it with toppings just before serving to keep it fresh.
Is this cake suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan since it contains no eggs or dairy. The use of vinegar and baking soda helps the cake rise, making it a great option for those following vegan recipes.
Can I add frosting to this cake?
Absolutely! While it’s delicious on its own, you can frost it with your favorite chocolate or vanilla frosting for added sweetness. Cream cheese frosting also works well, especially if you're serving it for a special occasion.
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).