Chocolate Depression Cake

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Rich, moist, and completely egg-free, this Chocolate Depression Cake is a nostalgic nod to simpler times when baking was about resourcefulness and heart. Also known as “Wacky Cake,” this recipe emerged during the Great Depression when milk, eggs, and butter were scarce. Yet despite those limitations, it delivers a deeply chocolatey flavor with a tender crumb that feels anything but frugal.

This cake is a true marvel: quick to make, one bowl, and completely vegan without even trying. It requires no fancy mixers or hard-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re avoiding dairy, baking on a budget, or just craving a no-fuss chocolate fix, this cake checks every box. Serve it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar, or dress it up with a simple glaze or scoop of ice cream.

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What Makes a Depression Cake So Special?

The beauty of a Depression Cake lies in its simplicity. No eggs? No problem. Out of milk? You won’t need it. The ingredients work together thanks to clever chemistry, where vinegar and baking soda create lift and fluffiness. You’ll be amazed how moist and rich the final result is, using pantry staples and a wooden spoon.

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Ingredients for the Chocolate Depression Cake

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup water

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How To Make the Chocolate Depression Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Make sure there are no lumps.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Make three wells in the dry ingredients. Pour the vinegar into one, the vanilla extract into another, and the oil into the third. Then pour the water over everything. Stir until just combined, but don’t overmix.

Step 4: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve as-is, or top with powdered sugar, glaze, or your favorite frosting.

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How to Serve and Store This Chocolate Depression Cake

Serve your Chocolate Depression Cake warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you’re not sticking to a dairy-free diet. You can also drizzle it with a quick chocolate glaze or dust it with powdered sugar for a simple finish.

To store, wrap the cake tightly or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze slices individually for quick treats later.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is this cake so moist without eggs or milk?

The combination of vinegar, baking soda, and oil ensures the cake stays tender and moist. It mimics the binding and lifting properties of eggs.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes! Double the ingredients and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes.

What kind of cocoa powder works best?

Unsweetened natural cocoa powder is ideal. Avoid Dutch-processed, as it doesn’t react the same way with baking soda.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The results are still rich and delicious.

Do I need to use white vinegar?

White vinegar is traditional, but apple cider vinegar works just as well.

Can I frost this cake?

Of course! A simple chocolate ganache, peanut butter frosting, or even cream cheese icing can elevate this humble cake into something fancy.

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Want More Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

If this Chocolate Depression Cake hit the spot, you might want to explore more chocolate-rich treats that are equally fuss-free and satisfying:

• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a creamy and fruity twist on classic indulgence.
• Bisquick Chocolate Chip Cookies if you want something chewy and quick.
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars for layers of sweet and salty delight.
• Chocolate Crinkle Sandwich Cookies with a soft ganache center.
• Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars if you’re craving cinnamon sugar bliss with a creamy middle.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it plain, or did you go bold with frosting? Did your grandma make something similar?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Check out more of my daily treats and kitchen adventures on Pinterest @NinaDishes.

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