Depression Vanilla Cake Recipe
The Depression Vanilla Cake, also known as "Crazy Cake" or "Wacky Cake," is a simple and delightful dessert that originated during the Great Depression when ingredients like eggs, milk, and butter were scarce. This cake is made without these traditional ingredients yet still manages to be moist, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 inch baking pan,
- parchment paper,
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup water
- 2/3 tsp baking soda
- 2/3 tbsp white vinegar
- 1/3 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the water, vinegar, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil.
- Combine and Mix: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can frost or enjoy it plain.