By Bring Chocolate Depression CakeChocolate Depression Cake to your table with an easy method and crowd-pleasing taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike.
Chocolate Depression CakeChocolate Depression Cake captures the essence of desserts|cakes while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Chocolate Depression CakeChocolate Depression Cake becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the 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 apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon coffee, optional
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
3/4 teaspoon salt
For the frosting:
2 1/2 -3 cups powdered sugar
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup water
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt, optional
How To Make Chocolate Depression Cake
Preheat oven to 375º F and lightly grease two 9-inch cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.
Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl, then whisk in water, oil, cider vinegar, coffee and vanilla extract.
Stir until no lumps remain, then pour mixture evenly into greased cake pans.
Place in oven and bake for 24-26 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
How To Make Frosting
While cake bakes, make frosting by whisking together powdered sugar, cocoa powder and salt, if using, in a large bowl or mixer.
Add water, softened butter and vanilla extract, and beat together until smooth and creamy. Add more sugar for a thicker frosting and more water for a thinner frosting.
Remove cake from oven and let cool before frosting.
PREPARATION STEPS
Preheat oven to 375º F and lightly grease two 9-inch cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.
Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl, then whisk in water, oil, cider vinegar, coffee and vanilla extract.
Stir until no lumps remain, then pour mixture evenly into greased cake pans.
Add water, softened butter and vanilla extract, and beat together until smooth and creamy. Add more sugar for a thicker frosting and more water for a thinner frosting.
Preheat oven to 375º F and lightly grease two 9-inch cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.
Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl, then whisk in water, oil, cider vinegar, coffee and vanilla extract.
Stir until no lumps remain, then pour mixture evenly into greased cake pans.
Add water, softened butter and vanilla extract, and beat together until smooth and creamy. Add more sugar for a thicker frosting and more water for a thinner frosting.
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 55 min | Servings: 12 | Calories: ~320 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Coffee; Tea; Vanilla ice cream; Fresh berries
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
