Wacky cake is the mischievous little dessert that proves simplicity reigns supreme in your kitchen. A single bowl of flour, sugar, cocoa, a splash of almond milk, a swirl of oil and a dash of apple cider vinegar come together in a riot of chocolaty bliss—no eggs required! As baking soda meets vinegar, delightful bubbles lift a tender crumb that’s both moist and whisper-light. Warm spices like cinnamon or a handful of chocolate chips can be tossed in for extra cheer. Whip up this fuss-free wonder when cravings strike, and watch friends and family marvel at how little effort yields maximum joy.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Wacky cake
- It’s a delightful egg-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
- Simple ingredients make it a breeze to whip up.
- Perfectly moist and rich, it satisfies any sweet tooth.
- Great for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in.
Wacky cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.
- In an ungreased 8×8-inch baking pan, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, ¼ cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Make three wells in the dry mixture. Pour 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into one well, 1 tablespoon of vinegar into the second, and 5 tablespoons of vegetable oil into the third. This is where the magic happens!
- Pour 1 cup of water over all the ingredients in the pan. This will help bring everything together into a lovely batter.
- Gently stir the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before serving. Enjoy your delicious Wacky cake!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Fat | 8g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugar | 12g |
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Wacky cake!
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour – the base of the cake
- 1 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – adds rich chocolate flavor
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the cake rise
- ½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances flavor
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar – activates the baking soda for a lighter texture
- 5 tablespoons vegetable oil – keeps the cake moist
- 1 cup water – combines all ingredients
How to Make Wacky Cake
Wacky cake is a delightful egg-free dessert that’s easy to whip up. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 30–35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious treat ready in no time. Let it cool for a bit before serving, and enjoy every bite!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In an ungreased 8×8-inch baking pan, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 3: Create Wells
Make three wells in the dry mixture. Pour 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into one well, 1 tablespoon of vinegar into the second, and 1/3 cup of vegetable oil into the third. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Add Water
Pour 1 cup of water over all the ingredients in the pan. This will help bring everything together into a lovely batter.
Step 5: Stir It Up
Gently stir the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before serving. Enjoy your delicious Wacky cake!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Dietary | Egg-free |
| Serves | 8 |
| Best Served | Cool and sliced, perfect for sharing! |
Pro Tips for Making Wacky cake
- Use unsweetened applesauce as a moisture booster.
- Mix the dry ingredients well to avoid clumps.
- Experiment with different extracts for unique flavors.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting for best results.
How to Serve this Wacky cake
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple, sweet touch.
- Top with fresh berries for a burst of flavor.
- Serve with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a tropical twist.
- Enjoy it warm with a cup of herbal tea for a cozy treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make this cake ahead and store it easily:
Storing Wacky cake Leftovers
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing Wacky cake
- Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
- Label with the date and type of cake.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Wacky cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cake on a baking sheet.
- Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Why do they call it wacky cake?
Wacky cake gets its quirky name from its unconventional ingredients and method. It was created during the Great Depression when eggs and dairy were scarce, leading to a cake that is both egg-free and dairy-free. The unique combination of vinegar and baking soda creates a delightful rise, making it a fun and whimsical dessert that has stood the test of time!
2. What is in a wacky cake?
A wacky cake typically includes flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, vinegar, vegetable oil, and water. This simple mix of ingredients comes together to create a moist and delicious cake without the need for eggs or milk. It’s a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a quick and easy dessert!
3. What is the 1234 rule in baking?
The 1234 rule in baking refers to a simple ratio for making cakes: 1 part fat, 2 parts sugar, 3 parts flour, and 4 parts liquid. This guideline helps bakers create a balanced cake that is moist and flavorful. While wacky cake doesn’t strictly follow this rule, it’s a great reminder of the basic principles of cake baking!
4. What is the most delicious cake in the world?
The title of the most delicious cake in the world is subjective and varies from person to person! Some might argue for the classic chocolate cake, while others may prefer a rich red velvet or a light and fluffy sponge cake. Ultimately, the best cake is the one that brings you joy and satisfies your taste buds, and wacky cake is certainly a contender with its unique flavor and texture!
Final Thoughts
Wacky cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful trip down memory lane! With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll find joy in every bite. So gather your loved ones, whip up this egg-free treat, and savor the sweet moments together. Trust me, this cake will become a cherished favorite in no time!