A Wacky Cake and Independence Day!

For most Americans, the July 4th holiday conjures up visions of fireworks and sparklers mixed with barbeques, sunscreen and swimming pools. For my family, it’s also birthday celebrations! My (little) brother arrived on July 1 (Canada Day!) and his wife celebrates her birthday exactly one week later. (Hence, I am publishing this post middle of the road between the celebrations.)

Ever since I can remember, there has been only one cake that has been served at this celebration: the Wacky Cake. What is a “Wacky Cake” you ask?

Only the most delicious, decadent, rich, chocolatey pan of cakey goodness you will ever encounter. Topped with a creamy vanilla buttercream frosting that melts in your mouth (bless the good people at Wilton for patriotically sharing the recipe with America).

We affectionately call this cake “Wacky Cake” because that is what the recipe card called it that was gifted to my mother at a wedding shower thrown for her by her students when she was a newly engaged elementary school teacher more than 50 years ago.

While we call it “Wacky Cake,” the actual recipe is also referred to as “Chocolate Depression Cake” and became popular in the early 1930’s because it does not require eggs, milk or butter – all things that were hard to come by and expensive during the Great Depression. (This post from I Am Baker was interesting and has the recipe!)

Mom has always been the official Wacky Cake baker…but this year, I mustered enough courage to make it myself since I’ll be celebrating with the brother and family solo this year. (I’m sweating bullets. Why is it always so nerve-racking to make a beloved family recipe for the first time???)

It’s not hard…and it makes the house smell divine.

Fast-forward to the “cut and taste” moment: success!!

Please pardon the giant hunk of chocolate dropped in the middle of my frosting intruding on my attempt at an Instagram-worthy photo of my piece. If I’m being honest it took me about 2 seconds to cut and devour my piece, which may explain haphazard appearance.

I was proud of myself – it actually tasted like I remembered AND it passed muster with the birthday boy!

A word of advice for you if you have a birthday, holiday, celebration or even just a Tuesday coming up: bake the cake. Immediately.

You’re welcome.