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Sad Cake The Classic Depression Era Chocolate Cake

Shruthi
Sad Cake is a simple, egg-free chocolate cake made with pantry staples.It’s moist, flavorful, and budget-friendly.Perfect for everyday desserts or quick baking needs.A timeless recipe that proves simplicity can be delicious.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar
  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease an 8-inch baking pan.
  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Make three small wells in the dry mixture.
  • Add vanilla, vinegar, and oil into the wells.
  • Pour water over everything and mix until smooth.
  • Pour batter into the prepared pan.
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool before slicing or frosting.

Notes

  • No eggs or dairy required.
  • Vinegar taste disappears after baking.
  • Use good-quality cocoa for richer flavour.
  • Can be baked in one bowl.
  • Tastes even better the next day.
Keyword dairy-free cake, eggless chocolate cake, Great Depression cake, Sad Cake, Wacky Cake recipe