Chocolate Depression Cake

 

 Chocolate Depression Cake (Crazy Cake)

This Chocolate Depression Cake—also known as Crazy Cake, Wacky Cake, or Chocolate Surprise Cake—is a rich, moist, chocolatey dessert that uses no eggs, no milk, and no butter. That’s right—no dairy, no fuss, and still delicious.

Why the name? It dates back to the Great Depression, when ingredients like eggs and dairy were scarce. But don’t let its humble origins fool you—this cake is a flavorful classic that’s stood the test of time!

> Depression—as in the Great Depression, not “this cake will cure your depression.” 😅

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  Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

3/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/4 cups water

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon coffee (optional but enhances chocolate flavor!)

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

2 1/2 to 3 cups powdered sugar

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/3 cup water

1/4 cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt (optional)

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  Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together:

Flour

Sugar

Cocoa powder

Baking soda

Salt

4. Add the wet ingredients:

Water

Vegetable oil

Vinegar

Coffee (if using)

Vanilla extract

5. Whisk until smooth—no lumps!

6. Divide batter evenly between the two pans.

7. Bake for 24–26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Let cakes cool completely before frosting.

Step 2: Make the Frosting

1. In a large bowl or mixer, whisk together:

Powdered sugar

Cocoa powder

Salt (if using)

2. Add:

Water

Softened butter

Vanilla extract

3. Beat until smooth and creamy.

Add more sugar for a thicker frosting, more water for a thinner one.

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  Pro Tips

Want an even richer flavor? Don't skip the coffee. You won’t taste it—it just deepens the chocolate.

This cake is naturally vegan (if you use a vegan butter or skip the frosting).

Perfect for when you're low on pantry staples or baking on a budget.

Try it with powdered sugar dusting instead of frosting for a lighter touch.

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  Serving Suggestions

Serve with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee.

Great with berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Wrap leftovers tightly and store at room temp for up to 3 days—or freeze slices for later.

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 Final Thoughts

Chocolate Depression Cake proves that simple ingredients can create amazing results. It’s the kind of old-fashioned, resourceful baking that we love to share and preserve.

Have you made this cake before? Let us know how yours turned out in the comments!