Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking, and set it aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, lukewarm water, and vanilla extract until they are thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture.
- Combine Batter: Whisk the ingredients gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Add Vinegar: Stir in the white vinegar until just combined. The vinegar reacts with the baking soda to help the cake rise and become fluffy. Avoid overmixing at this stage.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 24 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing and serving to let the texture set properly.
Notes
- Use lukewarm water to help the sugar dissolve properly for a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- The white vinegar is key for activating the baking soda to make the cake rise without eggs.
- Test doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
- Let the cake cool completely if you plan to frost it or serve it as a dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian