The All in One Pan Cake, also known as Wacky Cake, is a classic and simple dessert that has an interesting history. Here’s all the information you requested:
What is it?
The All in One Pan Cake, or Wacky Cake, is a type of cake that gained popularity during the Great Depression and World War II when ingredients like eggs and butter were scarce. What makes it unique is that it’s prepared in a single pan, and it doesn’t require any eggs or dairy products.
History:
The history of the Wacky Cake is closely tied to the economic hardships of the early to mid-20th century. Since eggs and butter were rationed during World War II, creative home bakers came up with recipes like the Wacky Cake that could be made with readily available and affordable ingredients. The absence of eggs and dairy led to its “wacky” and unconventional ingredient list.
Components:
Here are the main components of a basic Wacky Cake:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
Steps to Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In an ungreased 8-inch (or 9-inch) square baking pan, sift together the flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and cocoa powder.
- Make three wells in the dry ingredients. Pour the vanilla extract into one well, vinegar into another, and vegetable oil into the third.
- Pour the water over all the ingredients in the pan and stir until well combined. You can use a fork or a whisk for this.
- Make sure the batter is evenly mixed and there are no dry spots left.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once it’s cooled, you can frost or serve it as desired.
Time Needed:
The preparation time for a Wacky Cake is relatively quick, typically around 10-15 minutes to mix the ingredients. Baking time usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes, so in total, you can expect to spend about 45 to 55 minutes from start to finish.
Enjoy your homemade All in One Pan Cake, or Wacky Cake! It’s a delightful and budget-friendly dessert option with an interesting history.
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for a basic All in One Pan Cake (Wacky Cake):
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: 190-220 calories (varies with serving size and ingredients)
- Total Fat: 6-8 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1-1.5 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 200-250 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 33-38 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 20-25 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
Health Information:
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Low in Saturated Fat: The All in One Pan Cake, or Wacky Cake, is typically low in saturated fat, making it a healthier option compared to some other desserts.
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Eggless and Dairy-Free: One of the unique features of Wacky Cake is that it doesn’t contain eggs or dairy, making it suitable for individuals with allergies or dietary restrictions.
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Low Cholesterol: Since there are no eggs in the recipe, this cake is naturally cholesterol-free.
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Moderate Sugar Content: While it does contain sugar, the amount can be adjusted to taste. You can use less sugar or substitute with healthier alternatives like maple syrup or honey.
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Vegan-Friendly: Wacky Cake can be easily adapted to a vegan diet by using plant-based milk and ensuring the cocoa powder is dairy-free.
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Portion Control: As with any dessert, it’s essential to practice portion control to manage calorie intake and sugar consumption. Enjoying a small slice is a reasonable way to indulge without overindulging.
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Customization: You can make this cake healthier by incorporating whole wheat flour or using alternative sweeteners like stevia or applesauce to reduce sugar content.
Remember that the exact nutrition content can vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size you use. Always check the labels of the ingredients you choose for the most accurate nutritional information.
