This simple and delicious cake is a classic for a reason! It’s made with basic pantry staples, making it perfect for those times when you need a comforting treat but don’t have many ingredients on hand.

Chocolate Depression Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Sugar 1 1/4 cups
Water 1 1/4 cups
Vegetable oil 1/2 cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder 1/3 cup
Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon
Coffee (optional) 1 tablespoon
Vanilla extract 1 1/2 teaspoons
Baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons
Salt 3/4 teaspoon
For the Frosting:
Ingredient Quantity
Powdered sugar 2 1/2 – 3 cups
Unsweetened cocoa powder 1 cup
Water 1/3 cup
Unsalted butter (room temperature) 1/4 cup (1/2 stick)
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt (optional) Pinch
Instructions:
Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together water, oil, apple cider vinegar, coffee (if using), and vanilla extract.
Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly until a smooth batter forms.
Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 24-26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely.
Frosting Instructions

Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt (if using).
Add wet ingredients: Gradually add water, softened butter, and vanilla extract, beating with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
Adjust consistency: Add more powdered sugar for a thicker frosting or more water for a thinner frosting, as needed.
Frost: Once the cakes are completely cool, frost them with the chocolate frosting.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Chocolate Depression Cake!