Chocolate Crazy Cake

Chocolate Crazy Cake

This recipe for Chocolate Crazy Cake is a throwback to the Great Depression era when ingredients like eggs, milk, and butter were scarce. What makes this cake truly “crazy” is its magical ability to come together without these traditional baking staples, yet still deliver a moist, rich, and decadent dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this cake is not only simple and budget-friendly but also a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

If you like chocolate, you should definitely try our favorite brownies recipe!

Discover the easiest Chocolate Crazy Cake recipe that doesn’t require eggs, milk, or butter, yet delivers a rich and moist dessert.

Why You’re Going to Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Chocolate Crazy Cake recipe, but here are a few highlights that make it truly special:

1. Simple Ingredients: This cake requires no eggs, milk, or butter, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions or when you’re low on traditional baking staples. All you need are basic pantry ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
2. Budget-Friendly: Originally created during the Great Depression, this recipe is designed to be economical without sacrificing flavor or texture. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a homemade dessert.
3. Quick and Easy: With no complicated steps or fancy equipment needed, this cake comes together in just minutes. It’s a great recipe for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you simply crave something sweet.
4. Rich and Moist: Despite its simplicity, this cake is incredibly moist and chocolatey. Each bite is a perfect balance of rich cocoa flavor and tender crumb, making it hard to believe it’s made without the usual baking staples.
5. Versatile and Customizable: You can easily add your favorite toppings or mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or a simple glaze. This cake is a fantastic base for experimenting with different flavors and textures.
6. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cake. It’s an ideal baking project to do with children since it’s straightforward and forgiving.
7. Historical Charm: Enjoy a slice of history with this nostalgic recipe that has stood the test of time. It’s a fun and delicious way to connect with the past while enjoying a modern treat.

Make this simple and budget-friendly Chocolate Crazy Cake with pantry staples and enjoy a delicious, egg-free, dairy-free treat.

Ingredients & Notes

Understanding the key ingredients in this Chocolate Crazy Cake will help you appreciate the simplicity and magic of this recipe. Here are some notes on each component:

1. All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of your cake, providing structure and texture. Make sure to measure it correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife to avoid a dense cake.
2. Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cake. You can experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar, for a slightly different flavor and texture.
3. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This gives the cake its rich chocolate flavor. Use a high-quality cocoa powder for the best results. Both natural and Dutch-processed cocoa will work, though they may slightly alter the cake’s flavor. I also highly recommend using Hershey’s Special Dark Cocoa in this recipe for an extra rich depth of flavor.
4. Baking Soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise. Make sure your baking soda is fresh and not expired for optimal results.
5. Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness. Don’t skip this ingredient, as it plays a crucial role in the overall taste.
6. Water: Provides the necessary moisture to the batter. You can use room temperature water or even replace some of it with brewed coffee to deepen the chocolate flavor.
7. Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture and tenderness to the cake. Any neutral-flavored oil, like canola or sunflower oil, will work perfectly.
8. White Vinegar: Reacts with the baking soda to create lift in the cake, making it light and fluffy. This is a critical ingredient, so don’t omit it.
9. Vanilla Extract: Adds a depth of flavor and enhances the chocolate. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.

These simple ingredients come together to create a surprisingly rich and delicious cake. The absence of eggs, milk, and butter makes this recipe accessible to those with dietary restrictions while still delivering a moist and flavorful dessert. Enjoy experimenting with these ingredients and making this Chocolate Crazy Cake your own!

Whip up a quick and delicious Chocolate Crazy Cake using this foolproof recipe that’s perfect for novice and seasoned bakers alike.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Chocolate Crazy Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

1. Accurate Measurements: Measure your ingredients carefully, especially the flour and cocoa powder. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid packing too much into the measuring cup, which can result in a dense cake.
2. Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda is fresh. Expired baking soda can lead to a cake that doesn’t rise properly.
3. Mixing the Batter: Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the wet ingredients. This ensures even distribution of the baking soda and cocoa powder, resulting in a consistent texture and flavor.
4. Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake due to excess gluten development.
5. Parchment Paper: Line your cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This helps prevent the cake from sticking and ensures a clean release.
6. Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
7. Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator, though the cake is best enjoyed at room temperature.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve a delicious, moist, and perfectly textured Chocolate Crazy Cake every time. Happy baking!

Create a chocolatey delight with our easy Chocolate Crazy Cake recipe, a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

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Chocolate Crazy Cake

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Explore the history and flavor of Chocolate Crazy Cake, an egg-free, dairy-free dessert that comes together effortlessly.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups white sugar
• 3 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 tablespoons cocoa
• 2 heaping teaspoons baking soda
• 1 scant cup cooking oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 2 cups cold water

Optional: Chocolate Frosting

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup all purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Prepare a 9x13 baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cook spray.
2. Mix together dry ingredients: sugar, flour, salt, cocoa powder, and baking soda.
3. Make a well in the middle and add the oil, vanilla, vinegar, and cold water. Whisk together until smooth batter forms.
4. Bake for 30 minutes, or until cake passes the toothpick test. Serve warm or let cool before frosting.

Optional Chocolate Frosting

Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Line and lightly spray a 9x13 baking dish.

1. Whisk together all of the brownie ingredients until batter forms. Spread the batter in the baking dish. Bake for 18-20 minutes until edges are pulling away from the dish an center looks set.
2. Make the frosting: whisk together all of the ingredient using an electric mixer until smooth. Spread over baked brownies.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 15 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 474Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 41mgSodium: 416mgCarbohydrates: 65gFiber: 1gSugar: 40gProtein: 5g

Variations

Mocha Crazy Cake

• Add: 2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules dissolved in the water.
• Flavor: Intensifies the chocolate flavor with a subtle coffee kick.

Orange Chocolate Crazy Cake

• Add: 1 tablespoon of orange zest and substitute ¼ cup of water with freshly squeezed orange juice.
• Flavor: Adds a bright and refreshing citrus note to the rich chocolate.

Spicy Mexican Chocolate Crazy Cake

• Add: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients.
• Flavor: Infuses the cake with warm spices and a hint of heat for a unique twist.

Mint Chocolate Crazy Cake

• Add: 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the wet ingredients.
• Top: With crushed peppermint candies or chocolate mint chips.
• Flavor: Creates a cool and refreshing chocolate-mint combination.

Nutty Chocolate Crazy Cake

• Add: ½ cup of chopped nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds) to the batter.
• Top: With additional nuts for extra crunch.
• Flavor: Adds a delightful nutty texture and flavor to the cake.

Berry Chocolate Crazy Cake

• Add: 1 cup of fresh or frozen raspberries, blueberries, or chopped strawberries to the batter.
• Top: With a berry compote or fresh berries.
• Flavor: Introduces a fruity tartness that complements the rich chocolate.

Explore the history and flavor of Chocolate Crazy Cake, an egg-free, dairy-free dessert that comes together effortlessly.

Caramel Chocolate Crazy Cake

• Swirl: In ½ cup of caramel sauce into the batter before baking.
• Top: With a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt.
• Flavor: Combines the sweetness of caramel with the richness of chocolate for a decadent treat.

Coconut Chocolate Crazy Cake

• Add: ½ cup of shredded coconut to the batter.
• Top: With a coconut glaze or toasted coconut flakes.
• Flavor: Adds a tropical twist with a chewy texture and subtle coconut flavor.

Marble Crazy Cake

• Mix: 1 tablespoon of the batter with 2 tablespoons of peanut butter.
• Swirl: The peanut butter mixture into the batter in the pan to create a marbled effect.
• Flavor: Combines chocolate and peanut butter in a visually appealing pattern.

S’mores Crazy Cake

• Add: ½ cup of crushed graham crackers to the batter.
• Top: With mini marshmallows and chocolate chips before baking.
• Flavor: Recreates the classic campfire treat with gooey marshmallows and crunchy graham crackers.

 

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