Description

This Chocolate Depression Cake is a rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey dessert made without eggs or dairy in the batter. Topped with a silky chocolate frosting, it’s a simple yet indulgent classic perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

½ teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon white vinegar

⅓ cup vegetable oil

1 cup water

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

1 cup confectioners’ sugar

3 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda until evenly combined.
Add the vanilla extract, vinegar, vegetable oil, and water to the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is smooth and fully blended.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
To make the frosting, combine the softened butter, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, and confectioners’ sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat on low speed for about 30 seconds until combined.
Gradually add the milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, beating until smooth and spreadable.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake, then slice and serve.

Notes

Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for extra richness.

Replace part of the water with brewed coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.

For a dairy-free frosting, use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freeze the unfrosted cake tightly wrapped for up to 2 months and thaw before frosting.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 410 kcal
Sugar: 38 g
Sodium: 320 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 20 mg