Can you use coffee instead of water?

Absolutely! Replacing water with a cup of brewed coffee is one of the easiest ways to enhance the chocolate flavor. It adds depth and richness without making the cake taste like coffee. Many bakers say it turns a good cake into a great one.

Can you use a different frosting?

Yes, you can swap the classic chocolate frosting for any topping that suits your taste. Some popular alternatives include: - Peanut butter frosting - Buttercream - Vegan ganache - Salted caramel drizzle Frosting isn’t required, but it does elevate the dessert for special occasions or gatherings.

Can you freeze it after baking?

Definitely. Just ensure the cake is fully cooled before wrapping. Store it airtight with plastic and foil, and it’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer . For best results, thaw at room temperature before adding any frosting. Learn more about smart freezing in our pumpkin pie overnight oats guide .

Can this be made gluten-free or sugar-free?

Yes! For gluten-free versions, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix . To make it sugar-free, swap granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or another suitable alternative. Keep in mind, texture and flavor may vary slightly depending on the substitution.

Depression Cake –Best 1930s-Era Recipe Making a Comeback!

Name: Depression Cake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups (187 g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar; ¼ cup (29.5 g) 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 (237 g) water; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for frosting); 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting); 1 tablespoon honey (for frosting); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting); 1 cup (125 g) confectioners’ sugar (for frosting); 3 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream (for frosting)

Depression Cake

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Depression Cake is a simple, moist chocolate cake made without eggs, milk, or butter. Originating during the Great Depression, this budget-friendly, one-bowl dessert is naturally vegan and perfect for any occasion.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 9 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1½ cups (187 g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (29.5 g) 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 (237 g) water
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
1 tablespoon honey (for frosting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
1 cup (125 g) confectioners’ sugar (for frosting)
3 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream (for frosting)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) 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, sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda.
Add vanilla extract, vinegar, oil, and water to the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
To make the frosting, combine softened butter, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla, and confectioners’ sugar in a bowl using a hand mixer on low speed for about 30 seconds.
Slowly add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired frosting consistency.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake and serve.

Notes

Substitute brewed coffee for water to enhance chocolate flavor.
Frosting is optional and customizable.
Can be made as cupcakes: bake for 15–20 minutes at 350°F.
Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Thaw before adding frosting.
Let cake cool fully before storing to avoid moisture buildup.

Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/depression-cake-delicious-recipe/