Accidentally Vegan Cake, or Depression Cake

• 3 cups flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups wate

1. Preheat oven to 350
2. Mix together dry ingredients in an untreated 9×13 pan (Flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, salt) until well combined. I use a whisk and sometimes my hands if the sugar or cocoa is lumpy to break the lumps.
3. Make three wells in the flour. Pour the oil in one, the vanilla in another, and the vinegar in the last.
4. Pour cold water over all. Stir with a fork until well combined. This may take about 5 minutes.
5. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30-40 minutes. Test for doneness with a toothpick (toothpick will come out dry with a couple crumbs clinging to it) or by pressing with your fingers gently. If it springs back, it’s done.
6. Frost with your favorite frosting (I like an almond buttercream—make with vegan butter for a fully vegan cake)

This recipe is also called Wacky Cake. Invented during the depression (or maybe earlier) to make a cake without rationed or expensive items, so its made without butter or eggs making this accidentally vegan. One of my favorite cakes to make and eat.