There’s a unique charm in baking a cake that requires no eggs or dairy, yet still delivers a decadent chocolate experience. When I first encountered Wacky Cake, I was intrigued by its whimsical name and the simplicity it promised. This delightful dessert is known for its moistness and fluffy texture, marrying the best qualities of a cake and a fudgy brownie without the usual animal products.
Perfect for anyone looking to indulge guilt-free or those navigating dietary restrictions, this Wacky Cake proves that homemade treats can be both wholesome and satisfying. With ingredients you likely already have on hand, whipping up this dessert feels like a little adventure. Imagine yanking the warm, chocolate-scented wonder from the oven and generously dusting it with powdered sugar simple yet absolutely delightful!
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just starting out, this Easy Wacky Cake will become your go-to recipe for gatherings, celebrations, or simply a cozy night at home. Let’s dive into creating a dessert that celebrates joy in every bite!
Why is Wacky Cake a Must-Try?
Delightful Simplicity: This cake requires no complex techniques, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Egg-free and dairy-free, it caters to a variety of dietary needs while still being deliciously rich.
Moist and Fluffy: The unique combination of ingredients gives you that perfect cake-brownie hybrid texture.
Quick Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can whip this dessert up in no time—ideal for spontaneous cravings.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether for family gatherings or casual gatherings, this cake is bound to impress everyone!
Easily Customizable: Feel free to experiment with flavors, add-ins, or garnishes to make it your own!
Wacky Cake Ingredients
For the Batter
• Cocoa Powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; can substitute with Dutch-process or natural cocoa based on preference.
• Instant Coffee (optional) – Enhances cocoa flavor; can be omitted or replaced with vanilla extract.
• Boiling Water – Activates the cocoa and helps with moisture, ensuring a moist Wacky Cake.
• Oil (e.g., canola or grapeseed) – Provides moisture and richness; substitute with coconut oil for added flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake beautifully.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor that complements the chocolate.
• White Vinegar – Activates baking soda, helping the cake rise to its fluffy perfection.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor of the cake.
• Oat Flour (or All-Purpose Flour) – Provides structure; substitute oat flour for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
• Baking Soda – Works with vinegar to create lift for the cake.
• Orange Zest (optional) – Adds a fresh citrus flavor that brightens the cake.
For the Icing
• Powdered Sugar – For icing or dusting the cake with sweetness.
• Orange Juice or Water – Used to achieve the desired icing consistency; adds a touch of citrus.
How to Make Wacky Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch cake pan. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and makes for easy slicing later on.
- Combine the cocoa powder with a cup of boiling water in a bowl, stirring until smooth. This step blooms the cocoa, intensifying its flavor for your Wacky Cake.
- Whisk together the oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, white vinegar, and kosher salt in another bowl until well combined. This mixture creates a moist and flavorful base for the cake.
- Gradually mix in the oat flour, baking powder, and baking soda until smooth. You want a thick but pourable batter, so mix just until no lumps remain.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, ice with powdered sugar mixed with orange juice or water for a delightful finishing touch.
Optional: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty presentation!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Wacky Cake?
Imagine gathering around the table, the warm aroma of chocolate wafting through the air, harmonizing perfectly with delectable side dishes that elevate your dessert experience.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries and raspberries add a burst of tartness, balancing the richness of chocolate perfectly. Their vibrant colors make every slice pop!
- Whipped Coconut Cream: This dairy-free cream offers a light, fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the moist Wacky Cake, enhancing its decadent flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing; the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm chocolate, creating a delightful and indulgent treat.
- Chocolate Glaze: A simple chocolate glaze drizzled over the cake intensifies its chocolatey goodness, elevating each luscious bite. The decadence is hard to resist!
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: Drizzle some creamy or crunchy peanut butter on top for a sweet and salty contrast—it’s the ultimate comfort food moment.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, adding texture that contrasts with the cake’s soft crumb.
- Spicy Ginger Tea: A warm cup of ginger tea complements the Wacky Cake’s sweetness, providing a comforting, spicy finish to your meal.
- Espresso: A rich shot of espresso enhances the chocolate notes in the cake, making every bite a gourmet experience. Perfect for coffee lovers!
- Zesty Orange Sorbet: For a fresh and fruity complement, serve a refreshing orange sorbet to cleanse the palate between bites of cocoa-rich goodness.
Tips for the Best Wacky Cake
• Bloom Your Cocoa: Always use boiling water to bloom the cocoa powder; this enhances flavor and creates a smoother batter for your Wacky Cake.
• Sugar Balance: Mixing granulated and brown sugar is key to avoiding a gummy texture; this combination ensures the cake retains moisture while being light.
• Flour Consistency: If using all-purpose flour instead of oat flour, remember to adjust the quantity to achieve the same batter consistency for perfect results.
• Coffee Kick: For an intensified chocolate flavor, consider adding instant coffee to the batter; it seamlessly blends into the cake without altering flavor.
• Zesty Touch: Don’t skip the optional orange zest; it brightens the chocolate flavor, adding a refreshing note that enhances your Wacky Cake.
Storage Tips for Wacky Cake
Room Temperature: Store Wacky Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness.
Fridge: If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Ensure it’s wrapped well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your slice of Wacky Cake warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat in an oven at low temperature until warmed through.
Wacky Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel encouraged to explore and personalize your cake with these fun twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute oat flour with almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend to ensure everyone can enjoy it.
- Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Fruit Fusion: Toss in ½ cup of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity surprise that brightens each bite.
- Creamy Upgrade: Swirl in a ½ cup of nut butter, like almond or peanut, into the batter for a creamy texture and nutty taste.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle warmth that surprises the palate.
- Zesty Variation: Swap out orange zest for lemon zest to give a brighter, fresh citrus note that enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Rich Chocolate: Use dark cocoa powder instead of regular for an intense chocolate experience that truly satisfies chocoholics.
- Layered Treat: Bake your Wacky Cake in two round pans, slice in half, and layer with a vegan frosting for an impressive dessert display.
Make Ahead Options
These Wacky Cakes are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal planning! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld wonderfully. To do this, simply follow the initial steps through mixing the batter, then cover the bowl tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, give it a good stir and pour it into the prepared pan. Baking time may be slightly longer, so keep an eye on it. Additionally, you can make the icing ahead of time and refrigerate it; just bring it back to room temperature before drizzling over the cake for that fresh and delightful finish. Enjoy the convenience of having a delicious dessert ready whenever you need it!
Wacky Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of cocoa powder should I use for Wacky Cake?
I recommend using unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results, but you can also opt for Dutch-process cocoa if you prefer a smoother texture and a milder chocolate flavor. Both work well, so choose based on what you have on hand!
How should I store Wacky Cake after baking?
Store your Wacky Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re keeping it longer, transfer it to the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure it’s wrapped well to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze Wacky Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your Wacky Cake, slice it into individual portions, then place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. After they’re frozen complete, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bags. This method makes it easy to thaw just what you need. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What should I do if my Wacky Cake is too dense or gummy?
If your Wacky Cake turns out dense or gummy, there are a couple of things to check for next time. Ensure you’re using the correct ratio of flour to liquid, and remember that too much sugar can contribute to this texture as well. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter—mix just until combined for the best result!
Is this cake safe for those with egg or dairy allergies?
Yes! The Wacky Cake recipe is inherently egg-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for anyone with allergies to these ingredients. However, always take care to check labels for any pre-packaged ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Enjoy a slice guilt-free!
Can I customize the flavors or add-ins in my Wacky Cake?
Very! Wacky Cake is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to experiment by adding in chocolate chips, nuts, or even a dash of flavored extracts. You can swap out cocoa powder for matcha or carob for a creative twist, allowing you to make this cake reflect your personal taste!
Deliciously Easy Wacky Cake: Your New Favorite Vegan Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch cake pan.
- Combine the cocoa powder with a cup of boiling water in a bowl, stirring until smooth.
- Whisk together the oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, white vinegar, and kosher salt in another bowl until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the oat flour, baking powder, and baking soda until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack.
- Once completely cooled, ice with powdered sugar mixed with orange juice or water.