An Inexpensive Cocoa Cake Recipe

History of the Inexpensive Cocoa Cake:

The Inexpensive Cocoa Cake is a delightful dessert that has been enjoyed for decades. This budget-friendly recipe gained popularity during difficult times when ingredients like eggs were scarce or expensive. Instead, it relies on basic pantry staples to create a delicious and moist cake that's perfect for any occasion.

Fun Facts about the Inexpensive Cocoa Cake:

1. The use of sour milk in this recipe adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the cake. Sour milk was commonly used in baking before the widespread availability of buttermilk.

2. Cocoa is the star ingredient in this cake, providing a rich and chocolatey flavor. The cake gets its deep color and indulgent taste from the addition of cocoa powder.

3. Saleratus, a precursor to baking soda, is used as a leavening agent in this recipe. It helps the cake rise and creates a light and fluffy texture.

Now, let's get to the recipe for the Inexpensive Cocoa Cake:

Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup sour milk
- 1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1-1/2 tablespoonfuls cocoa powder
- 1 level teaspoonful saleratus (or baking soda)
- 1 teaspoonful vanilla extract

For the icing:
- 1/4 cup grated chocolate
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a small loaf pan.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the brown sugar and butter until fluffy and well combined.

3. Add the sour milk to the mixture and stir until incorporated.

4. Sift the flour and cocoa powder over the creamed mixture. Mix well to combine.

5. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the saleratus (or baking soda) in a little of the sour milk. Add it to the cake batter along with the vanilla extract. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. While the cake is baking, prepare the icing. In a saucepan, combine the grated chocolate, milk, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a spreadable consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

9. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the icing over the top. You can also add decorative touches like additional grated chocolate or sprinkles if desired.

Now, your Inexpensive Cocoa Cake is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as a delightful dessert for any gathering or simply indulge in a slice any time you crave something sweet.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you're a fan of budget-friendly and eggless desserts, you might also enjoy these similar recipe dishes:

1. Vegan Chocolate Cake: This cake omits eggs and dairy but still delivers a rich and moist chocolatey flavor. It uses alternative ingredients like apple cider vinegar and plant-based milk to create a delicious vegan treat.

2. Depression-era Chocolate Crazy Cake: This cake is a nostalgic recipe that originated during the Great Depression when ingredients were scarce. It's made without eggs, butter, or milk but still turns out incredibly moist and flavorful thanks to unique additions like vinegar and oil.

3. Chocolate Wacky Cake: Another eggless and dairy-free cake, the Chocolate Wacky Cake is a classic recipe that's been enjoyed for generations. It relies on vinegar and oil for moisture and a bit of coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.

These recipes prove that you don't need expensive ingredients or complicated techniques to create a delicious and satisfying chocolate cake. Whether you're facing a shortage of eggs or simply looking for a budget-friendly treat, the Inexpensive Cocoa Cake and its similar recipe dishes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.