Wacky Cake – Vegan Chocolate Cake
Wacky Cake is a simple vegan chocolate cake made without eggs, milk, or butter. It's a well-known style of cake that dates back to the Depression era, when these supplies were not readily available.
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This Wacky Cake was made by grandmas across the country, but I was well into my 20s before I realized this wasn’t my own grandma’s secret recipe. Wacky Cake – also known as a Depression Cake or Crazy Cake – is made without eggs, milk or butter. Hence the wackiness.
It’s a great chocolate cake recipe to make now, as eggs are more expensive and difficult to find. This vegan chocolate cake is a quick-and-easy dessert that’s so simple even novice bakers can join in the fun.
I remember my grandma making this cake often, and it was one of the first recipes I learned to make on my own. It remains one of the most delicious chocolate cake recipes you can whip up with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Why You’ll Love This Wacky Cake
Wacky Cake is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. This classic vegan chocolate cake comes together without eggs, milk, or butter, yet still delivers a moist, tender crumb and rich chocolate flavor.
- Naturally vegan: No dairy or eggs required, making it a reliable vegan chocolate cake everyone can enjoy.
- Made with pantry staples: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
- One-bowl recipe: No mixer required and minimal cleanup.
- Perfectly moist texture: The combination of oil and vinegar creates a soft, fluffy cake every time.
- Versatile and dependable: Ideal for birthdays, casual desserts, or whenever a chocolate craving strikes.
Whether you grew up with Wacky Cake or are discovering it for the first time, this recipe delivers consistent results with very little effort.
Tips for Icing the Cake
Traditionally, the cake was served without any frosting. My recipe below adds a simple chocolate glaze, just like the one my grandma made, to create a crackle-top finish that really makes the cake stand out.
Powdered sugar, cocoa powder, water, salt, and vanilla extract are the only ingredients you’ll need. Simple mix together for a chocolate glaze that gives this cake a nostalgic finish.
Other tips for finishing the cake:
- Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar instead of frosting or icing
- Add sprinkles to make this a celebration cake or birthday cake with low effort
- Chop toasted walnuts or pecans to add on before the icing sets
- Use pre-made whipped topping to spread on for an icebox-style cake
Whether you grew up with Wacky Cake at home or the school cafeteria, this nostalgia-filled recipe is sure to bring a smile to your face.
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Wacky Cake – Vegan Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 tablespoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
For the chocolate icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 pinch salt
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare an 8-inch x 8-inch baking pan with non-stick baking spray.
- Add 1½ cups flour, 1 cup sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking soda and 3 tablespoons cocoa powder to a medium bowl. Whisk to combine.
- Create a well in the middle of the dry mixture and add in 1 tablespoon vinegar, ½ cup vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1 cup hot water.Stir until the mix is just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared baking pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake rest, until cool.
- Meanwhile, make the glaze by adding 2 cups powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, ¼ cup water, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to a bowl. Whisk together until a shiny glaze is formed and no lumps are present.
- Pour the glaze over the cooled cake and use the back of a spatula to spread evenly. Let rest until glaze is set. Slice and enjoy!
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