This vanilla crazy cake recipe is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual family dinners.
Also known as Wacky Cake, Depression Cake, or War Cake, this dessert was born out of necessity during the Great Depression when eggs, milk, and butter were scarce.
What makes this cake so “crazy” is its unique preparation method and ingredient list, which excludes eggs, milk, and butter.
The result is a moist, tender, and flavorful cake that’s incredibly easy to make. Let’s dive into the world of this nostalgic, delicious, and surprisingly simple cake!
What Makes The Vanilla Crazy Cake Special?
The vanilla crazy cake is a testament to simplicity and ingenuity in baking. Its ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making it a perfect go-to recipe for unexpected occasions or when you’re simply craving something sweet.
Despite its simplicity, the cake is moist, flavorful, and can be customized with various toppings and mix-ins.
How To Prepare Vanilla Crazy Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Yield: 9 servings
Equipment Needed
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup water
How To Make Vanilla Crazy Cake Recipe
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Create Wells for Wet Ingredients
Make three small wells in the dry ingredients mixture. Pour the vinegar into one well, the vanilla extract into the second, and the vegetable oil into the third.
4. Add Water and Mix
Pour the water over the entire mixture and whisk everything together until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.
5. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious vanilla crazy cake!
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this Vanilla Crazy Cake Recipe with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of your favourite ice cream.
For an extra touch, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top. This cake is also perfect for layering with fresh berries for a fruity twist.
Tips And Variations
1. Flavour Variations
Chocolate Crazy Cake: Replace 1/4 cup of the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolatey version.
Spice Crazy Cake: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for a spiced version.
2. Add-Ins
1. Nuts and Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
Fruit: Mix in 1/2 cup of dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, for added texture and flavour.
3. Frosting Ideas
Classic Buttercream: If you’re not avoiding dairy, top the cake with a simple buttercream frosting.
Vegan Frosting: For a dairy-free option, use a vegan buttercream or a glaze made with powdered sugar and water.
Health Benefits
This Vanilla Crazy Cake Recipe is a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions. It’s dairy-free and egg-free, making it suitable for vegans and those with allergies.
The use of vegetable oil provides healthy fats, and by opting for whole wheat flour, you can increase the fiber content.
Additionally, the simplicity of the ingredients means no preservatives or artificial additives.
Storing Vanilla Crazy Cake Recipe
To keep your Vanilla Crazy Cake Recipe fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week, ensuring it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out.
You can also freeze the cake for up to three months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminium foil before placing it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake at room temperature.
Conclusion
My Vanilla Crazy Cake recipe is a delightful testament to how simple ingredients can create a delicious treat.
This cake, free from eggs, milk, and butter, surprises with its moist, tender crumb and rich vanilla flavour. It’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions or when you need a quick, easy dessert.
The recipe’s simplicity doesn’t compromise on taste, making it a favorite in my kitchen.
Baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this Vanilla Crazy Cake is sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the magic of baking made easy!
Vanilla Crazy Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup water
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Create Wells for Wet Ingredients
- Make three small wells in the dry ingredients mixture. Pour the vinegar into one well, the vanilla extract into the second, and the vegetable oil into the third.
Add Water and Mix
- Pour the water over the entire mixture and whisk everything together until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.
Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious vanilla crazy cake!