Old-Fashioned Crazy Cake

During the Great Depression, when resources were scarce, creativity thrived in the kitchen. The Old-Fashioned Crazy Cake is a testament to that ingenuity, as it requires no milk, butter, or eggs. Despite its simple ingredients, this cake remains a moist and flavorful treat, perfect for any celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this Crazy Cake because it is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly delightful. The absence of traditional ingredients like eggs and butter doesn’t compromise its taste or texture. Instead, the combination of vinegar and baking soda provides a perfect rise, yielding a fluffy cake every time.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or mixing spoon
• Oven

Ingredients

Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups sugar
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brewed coffee (optional)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt

Frosting:

• 2 1/2-3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease two 9-inch cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the water, oil, vinegar, coffee (if using), and vanilla to the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth with no lumps remaining.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 24-26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting by whisking together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt in a large bowl or mixer.
7. Add the water, softened butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and beat until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more sugar or water as needed.
8. Once the cakes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely before frosting.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise.
• Mix the batter just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a nutty twist, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or peppermint, for a unique flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While specific nutritional values will vary, this cake is lower in fat compared to traditional cakes due to the absence of eggs and butter in the batter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

What can I use instead of coffee? If you prefer not to use coffee, simply omit it and use a little extra water.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Crazy Cake is more than a dessert; it’s a slice of history that brings simple yet delightful baking into your kitchen. Give it a try and share your results with friends and family. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you!