How to Make a Gluten Free Wacky Cake

If you’re searching for a simple yet delicious dessert that’s both gluten-free and full of rich chocolate flavor, look no further than the Gluten Free Wacky Cake. This cake is an old-fashioned recipe known by many names—depression cake, earthquake cake, and wacky cake. It was originally created during times when ingredients like eggs and dairy were scarce. This gluten-free version has been updated to cater to modern dietary needs without compromising on flavor or texture. It’s incredibly easy to make and will satisfy your chocolate cravings without the gluten or dairy.

What Is a Gluten Free Wacky Cake?

A Gluten Free Wacky Cake is a simple chocolate cake made without eggs, dairy, or gluten. This unique cake stands out because it’s mixed directly in the baking pan, making it a one-bowl recipe that’s quick to prepare and clean up. It uses vinegar to react with baking soda, which helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy without the need for eggs. Perfect for those with food allergies or anyone on a gluten-free diet, this cake offers all the flavor of a traditional chocolate cake without the gluten.

Why Choose a Gluten Free Wacky Cake?

• No Gluten, No Dairy, No Eggs: This cake is ideal for those following a gluten-free diet, dairy-free, or vegan lifestyle.

• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry items that are easy to find and budget-friendly.

• Moist and Rich: The combination of vegetable oil and coffee helps create a cake that’s incredibly moist and chocolatey.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family treat or a special dessert, the Gluten Free Wacky Cake can be served for any occasion.

Ingredients for the Perfect Gluten Free Wacky Cake

The beauty of the Gluten Free Wacky Cake is how simple the ingredients are, yet the result is a rich, decadent dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1½ cups of gluten-free flour blend: A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend is perfect for this cake, such as King Arthur Measure for Measure.

• 1 cup of granulated white sugar: This gives the cake the sweetness it needs.

• 4 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder: For a deep, chocolatey flavor.

• 1 teaspoon of baking soda: Helps the cake rise.

• 1 teaspoon of salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.

• 1 tablespoon of white vinegar: The vinegar reacts with the baking soda to help the cake rise.

• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.

• ⅓ cup of vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and adds richness.

• 1 cup of brewed coffee or water: The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, but water can be used for a milder version.

How to Make a Gluten Free Wacky Cake

Making this Gluten Free Wacky Cake is incredibly easy! With just one pan and a few simple steps, you’ll have a homemade cake in no time. Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the cake batter.

2. Prepare the Baking Pan
   Use an 8-inch square glass or ceramic baking dish. Glass is preferred because it helps the cake cook evenly and keeps it moist. Lightly grease the pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   In the baking pan, add 1½ cups of gluten-free flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 4 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir well with a fork until evenly mixed.

4. Create Wells for the Wet Ingredients
   Make three small wells in the mixture. Into each well, add:

   • 1 tablespoon of white vinegar

   • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

   • ⅓ cup of vegetable oil

5. Add Coffee or Water
   Pour 1 cup of brewed coffee (or water, if you prefer) over the dry and wet ingredients. Stir the mixture with a fork until everything is well combined.

6. Bake the Cake
   Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

7. Cool the Cake
   Let the cake cool completely before frosting. This ensures the frosting doesn’t melt and helps the cake set properly.

Frosting Your Gluten Free Wacky Cake

Frosting this cake is just as simple as making it. You can choose from two easy options:

• Store-Bought Frosting: Use a gluten-free and dairy-free chocolate frosting from a jar for a quick and hassle-free option. It’s a time-saver and still delicious.

• Homemade Vegan Chocolate Frosting: For an extra indulgent treat, make your own vegan chocolate frosting. It’s easy to whip up and adds a light, fluffy layer to your cake.

Flavor and Texture of Gluten Free Wacky Cake

• Flavor: The Gluten Free Wacky Cake has a rich, moist, and chocolatey flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The coffee subtly enhances the cocoa, making the chocolate taste even richer.

• Texture: While it’s not as fluffy as a traditional cake, the texture of this wacky cake is dense, moist, and incredibly satisfying. The oil ensures the cake stays soft, and the vinegar reacts with the baking soda to give it just the right lift.

Nutritional Benefits of Gluten Free Wacky Cake

One of the great things about Gluten Free Wacky Cake is that it can be enjoyed by many people with dietary restrictions. It’s a great option for those who need to avoid gluten, dairy, or eggs. While the cake is indulgent, it also has some nutritional benefits that can be part of a balanced diet.

Key Nutritional Information for Gluten Free Wacky Cake

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content of a typical serving of Gluten Free Wacky Cake:

Is Gluten Free Wacky Cake Healthier Than Traditional Cake?

While Gluten Free Wacky Cake is not a health food, it is definitely a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate cake for those with dietary restrictions. The lack of gluten, dairy, and eggs makes it easier to digest for people with food allergies or sensitivities. Moreover, it’s lower in saturated fat and cholesterol since it doesn’t use butter or eggs.

However, it’s important to note that the cake is still a dessert, and it should be enjoyed in moderation. For those seeking an even healthier version, you can experiment by reducing the sugar content slightly or adding healthier substitutions like applesauce in place of some of the oil.

How to Store Gluten Free Wacky Cake

Proper storage is key to keeping your Gluten Free Wacky Cake fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to store it:

• At Room Temperature: The cake can be stored in the pan with a tight cover or wrapped in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.

• In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake. It will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the fridge.

• Freezing the Cake: If you want to keep it for months, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature.

Variations of Gluten Free Wacky Cake

While the Gluten Free Wacky Cake is delicious on its own, there are many ways you can customize it to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations to consider:

• Add-ins: Try adding a handful of chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts to the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.

• Frosting Variations: You can top your cake with vegan frosting, cream cheese frosting, or even a light whipped coconut cream to change things up.

• Flavored Versions: If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can swap the cocoa powder for carob powder for a milder flavor or add a teaspoon of cinnamon for a spiced cake.

Gluten Free Wacky Cake for Special Occasions

This Gluten Free Wacky Cake is not only perfect for everyday treats but can also be a great option for special occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just having a family gathering, this cake can be a crowd-pleaser. Its simple, no-fuss preparation makes it perfect for times when you want a cake but don’t have the time for an elaborate recipe.

For added fun, decorate the cake with colorful sprinkles, edible glitter, or even candied fruits for a festive touch. You can also personalize the cake with a special message written in vegan icing.

Final Thoughts on Gluten Free Wacky Cake

Gluten Free Wacky Cake is a fantastic, versatile dessert that anyone can enjoy, no matter their dietary restrictions. It’s rich, moist, and indulgent, yet incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re following a gluten-free lifestyle, have food allergies, or just want a quick and easy dessert, this cake is sure to impress.

Not only does it offer a delicious flavor and texture, but it’s also a fun, nostalgic recipe that has stood the test of time. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. So, next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, skip the store-bought cakes and bake a Gluten Free Wacky Cake instead—you won’t regret it!

Gluten Free Wacky Cake Recipe Card

Ingredients

• 1½ cups gluten-free flour blend (King Arthur Measure for Measure recommended)

• 1 cup granulated white sugar

• 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ⅓ cup vegetable oil

• 1 cup brewed coffee (or water)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. In an 8-inch square glass or ceramic pan (do not use metal), combine the gluten-free flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well with a fork.

3. Create three small wells in the dry mixture. Into each well, add the following:

   • 1 tablespoon of white vinegar

   • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

   • ⅓ cup of vegetable oil

4. Pour 1 cup of brewed coffee (or water) over the entire mixture.

5. Mix everything together with a fork until the batter is smooth and no dry ingredients remain.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Let the cake cool completely before frosting with your favorite frosting or serving as-is.

Notes

• This cake is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.

• If you want to make cupcakes, divide the batter evenly into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes.

• For a richer flavor, substitute the coffee with water, though coffee enhances the chocolatey taste without imparting any coffee flavor.

• The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 160 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 38g

• Protein: 3g

• Fat: 1g

• Saturated Fat: 0.2g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g

• Sodium: 381mg

• Potassium: 48mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 23g

• Vitamin A: 0.001 IU

• Calcium: 17mg

• Iron: 1mg

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Method: Baking

Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Vegan

Servings: 9 servings

Calories: 160 kcal per serving

Yield: 1 8-inch square cake

How to Make a Gluten Free Wacky Cake

If you’re searching for a simple yet delicious dessert that’s both gluten-free and full of rich chocolate flavor, look no further than the Gluten Free Wacky Cake. This cake is an old-fashioned recipe known by many names—depression cake, earthquake cake, and wacky cake. It was originally created during times when ingredients like eggs and dairy were scarce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 42 minutes mins

Course baking

Cuisine Gluten-Free, Vegan

Ingredients

  

• 1½ cups gluten-free flour blend (King Arthur Measure for Measure recommended)
• 1 cup  granulated white sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon  vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup  brewed coffee (or water)

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• In an 8-inch square glass or ceramic pan (do not use metal), combine the gluten-free flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well with a fork.
• Create three small wells in the dry mixture. Into each well, add the following:

  1 tablespoon of white vinegar

  1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

  ⅓ cup of vegetable oil
• Pour 1 cup of brewed coffee (or water) over the entire mixture.
• Mix everything together with a fork until the batter is smooth and no dry ingredients remain.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting with your favorite frosting or serving as-is.

Notes

• • This cake is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
     
  • If you want to make cupcakes, divide the batter evenly into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes.

 

• For a richer flavor, substitute the coffee with water, though coffee enhances the chocolatey taste without imparting any coffee flavor.
• The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Keyword How to Make a Gluten Free Wacky Cake