Name: 1930's Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water

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There’s something truly enchanting about baking cakes from eras gone by. The modest 1930s, marked by resilience and creativity, birthed a recipe that has stood the test of time, and for good reason. This Chocolate Cake is a testament to the power of simplicity – a quick mix, a few staple ingredients, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the unmistakable aroma of rich chocolate. Each bite is a soft, moist memory that can transport you back to a time of dusting flour on kitchen countertops and waiting eagerly for the oven timer to signal your sweet reward.

Recipe Timing

Prep Duration: 15 minutes
Active Cooking: 35 minutes
Total Duration: 50 minutes
Portion Size: 12 servings
Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

Calories per portion: 350
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 53g
Fats: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 30g
Sodium: 210mg

Why You’ll Love This 1930’s Chocolate Cake

This cake has a charm that feels timeless. With each slice, you’ll discover deep, rich chocolate flavor perfectly balanced by a moist, tender crumb. It’s not just a dessert; it’s comfort food that reminds us of simpler times, where sharing a slice with family or friends was the highlight of the day. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a gathering, or simply a treat for yourself, this delightful chocolate cake will impress and evoke fond nostalgia in every bite.

The Complete Cooking Journey

This delightful cake starts with a simple gathering of your pantry staples. What could be more fulfilling than creating something so delicious with just a few ingredients and a bit of love? Follow the journey from preparation to serving – for a cake that not only tastes great but fills your heart with warmth.

Ingredients:

1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Method:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cake releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well, creating a dry blend that will form the cake’s foundation.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the bowl of dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the mixture is well-combined and smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate Boiling Water

Stir in the boiling water. Don’t worry—the batter will be thin! This adds moisture and richness to your cake.

Step 5: Bake It!

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This cake shines beautifully on its own, but a dusting of powdered sugar or a classic chocolate frosting can elevate it into a showstopper! Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful twist, or pair it with fresh berries to balance the sweetness. A cup of coffee or a warm glass of milk complements this classic dessert wonderfully.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

Once cooled, store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For extended storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply let the slices thaw before enjoying.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature; they incorporate better for an even texture.
Don’t Skimp on Mixing: Beat the batter as instructed between the dry and wet ingredients—this aids in developing gluten for structure.
Chocolate Cravings: For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder!

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to add a touch of coffee or espresso powder with the dry ingredients to amp up the chocolate flavor. You could also fold in a cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture. For a gluten-free version, substitute an appropriate gluten-free flour blend.

Reader Questions & Solutions

Why is my cake not rising?
Check that your baking powder and soda are fresh. Also, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the wet ingredients!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cake a day ahead – it tastes even better the next day!
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
Canola oil or melted coconut oil works great as substitutes.
How can I make a richer frosting?
Try adding cream cheese to your buttercream for a tangy twist, or use a ganache made with heavy cream and high-quality chocolate.
What if I don’t have boiling water?
Hot tap water can be used in a pinch, or simply bring some water to a simmer and use that instead.

Wrapping Up

Baking this 1930s Chocolate Cake is not just about the end result—it’s about the joy of creation. Each step brings a little magic, filling your kitchen with rich, chocolatey aromas that will entice everyone around. Let this cake be a reminder of the beauty of simplicity and share it with loved ones to create lasting memories. Happy baking!