This Cinnamon Depression Cake is a simple and nostalgic dessert that hails from the Great Depression era. Made with basic ingredients and no eggs, butter, or milk, it’s a warm and comforting treat that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
INGREDIENTS
- For the Cake:
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups, provides the structure for the cake.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness in the batter.
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, helps the cake rise.
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, adds a warm, spiced flavor.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, balances the sweetness.
- Water: 1 cup, provides moisture to the batter.
- Vegetable oil: 1/4 cup, adds moisture and richness.
- White vinegar: 1 tablespoon, reacts with baking soda for a light texture.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, adds depth to the flavor.
- For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- Granulated sugar: 2 tablespoons, for a sweet, crunchy topping.
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, enhances the warm flavor of the topping.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the water, vegetable oil, white vinegar, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined and smooth, being careful not to over-mix.
- Step 4: Pour the Batter
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Step 5: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- In a small bowl, mix together the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the batter for a sweet, spiced topping.
- Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy as a simple, comforting dessert!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this cake at room temperature or slightly warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting snack or dessert.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to keep it fresh.
- To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a richer flavor, you can replace the water with brewed coffee for a subtle mocha twist.
- For a lighter texture, be careful not to over-mix the batter once the wet ingredients are added.
- If you like a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the topping to 1 1/2 teaspoons.
Tips from Well-known Chefs
- Chef Alton Brown suggests using white vinegar to react with baking soda, creating a light and airy texture without the need for eggs.
- Pastry chef Claire Saffitz recommends using high-quality vanilla extract for a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Baker Mary Berry advises allowing the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure neat, clean cuts.