Wacky cake

The name Wacky Cake really does injustice to the cake. The word wacky, to me, suggests an unusual surprise in each bite or that it would taste like something manufactured at Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. But don't let the name discourage you, this cake is a must try. It has a tender crumb with a nice chocolate flavor and just sweet enough for your afternoon tea.

The name originates from  the fact that you put all the dry ingredients in baking pan, make a well, add all the wet ingredients in and mix then bake straight away.  I know, Wacky right, baking in the same pan that you mix. It's supposed to work except I was too scared to try to find out myself. So this is how I made it.

Ingredients: 

1 1/2 cup flour

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

1 tsp baking soda 

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or regular vinegar will suffice)

1 tsp vanilla
6 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened). I used Trader Joe's cocoa powder 

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, add the oil and sugar mix these two together while you add the cocoa powder, water, vanilla and the balsamic vinegar. Slowly add the flour and baking soda.  Pour the batter into your pan and bake for 30-35 mins.  To check if it is done, stick a toothpick into the centre, it should come out clean with maybe a few crumbs.
Enjoy it warm or after it cools with some ice cream. Serves 10-12 people.

What I learnt from this: Never judge a book by its cover and that you don't always need eggs and butter to make cakes taste great!