Name: Crazy Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1/3 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup olive oil; 1 cup warm water; 1/4 cup butter, softened; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons cream; Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 58 reviews

Let me share with you the joy of making the unforgettable Crazy Cake Recipe, a beloved dessert that’s surprisingly simple yet incredibly delicious. This cake has no eggs, no milk, and no butter in the batter, which might sound strange, but trust me, it results in a moist, rich chocolate cake with a delightfully tender crumb. The magic lies in its unique combination of pantry staples and straightforward method, perfect for both beginner bakers and anyone craving chocolate happiness without fuss. You’re going to love how the Crazy Cake Recipe turns everyday ingredients into a show-stopping treat for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of several clear glass bowls placed on a white marbled surface, each filled with different baking ingredients. In the center is a small bowl with dark brown vanilla extract. Surrounding it are medium bowls filled with white flour, dark brown cocoa powder, and white sugar. There are also small bowls containing baking soda, salt, and a clear liquid, likely vinegar or similar. A larger glass holds water on the upper right, and a bowl with a golden-yellow liquid, likely oil, sits to the left. All bowls are neatly arranged with clean edges, showing textures of powders and liquids clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for basic, easy-to-find ingredients that work together to create a beautifully textured cake with deep chocolate flavor. Each component is chosen not just for taste but for how it enhances the overall balance and moistness of the cake.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation giving the cake structure and a tender crumb.
1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps keep the cake moist.
1/3 cup cocoa powder: Brings rich chocolate flavor and a beautiful dark color.
1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the chocolate and balances sweetness.
1 teaspoon white vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to create lift, making the cake light and airy.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate flavor.
1/3 cup olive oil: Keeps the cake moist and adds a subtle fruity undertone.
1 cup warm water: Hydrates the batter and gently blooms the cocoa powder for richer taste.
1/4 cup butter (softened): Essential for the creamy, luscious frosting.
1/4 cup cocoa powder (for frosting): Intensifies the chocolate flavor while keeping the frosting light.
1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
2-3 tablespoons cream: Adds silkiness to the frosting and makes it spreadable.
Pinch of salt (for frosting): Balances the sweetness and heightens chocolate notes.

How to Make Crazy Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×9-inch square pan generously with butter. This step ensures your cake will come out cleanly and have that lovely buttery edge that’s so tempting. If you want a bigger cake, a 9×13-inch pan works too; just keep an eye on the baking time.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients in the Pan

This is where the quirky charm of the Crazy Cake Recipe shines—you mix dry ingredients right in the greased pan! Add the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt directly into the pan, then whisk gently with a fork or small whisk until evenly blended. No extra bowls means less washing, which is always a win.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, create a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in the white vinegar, vanilla extract, and olive oil. Then, slowly pour the warm water on top. Take a whisk and blend everything together right in the pan until the batter is smooth and homogenous. It might feel unusual at first, but that’s part of the charm!

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for about 33 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool completely before frosting. Patience is key here, but trust me, the wait is worth it.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While your cake is cooling, whip up the luscious frosting. Combine softened butter, cocoa powder, vanilla, powdered sugar, cream, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. With a hand mixer, beat the ingredients together until the frosting is fluffy, smooth, and irresistibly creamy. This frosting perfectly complements the cake’s rich chocolate flavor.

Step 6: Frost and Enjoy

Once your cake is completely cool, slather the frosting generously on top. Spread it evenly or create fun swirls for a homemade rustic vibe. Slice it up and get ready for compliments because this Crazy Cake Recipe truly tastes like a dream come true.

How to Serve Crazy Cake Recipe

A square metal baking pan holds a thick layer of rich, smooth, dark brown chocolate batter, divided into nine even squares by shallow cuts. The chocolate surface is shiny and creamy, with subtle swirls and gentle peaks reflecting light. The pan rests on a white marbled surface with a white cloth partially visible on the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

If you want to fancy up your cake, consider adding a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries on top. A sprinkle of shaved chocolate or a light dusting of cocoa powder can also add a gourmet touch while keeping the focus on that rich, chocolatey base. These small additions enhance flavor and presentation without overpowering the cake’s deliciousness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. The creamy contrast elevates the dessert experience, especially on a warm day. For a warm and cozy dessert, serve it alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a mug of hot cocoa to double down on the chocolate goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Crazy Cake Recipe in cupcake form by dividing the batter into lined muffin tins—adjust the baking time accordingly. Another fun idea is to layer the cake with fresh fruit and whipped cream in a trifle dish for a stunning visual and flavor surprise. No matter how you serve it, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard not to finish it all!), cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. The frosting helps keep the cake moist and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cake maintains its quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Though cold cake is delightful, if you prefer a warm slice, microwave a single piece for about 10-15 seconds. This little heat brings out the chocolate aroma and softens the frosting slightly, making every bite feel extra comforting.

FAQs

Why is it called Crazy Cake Recipe?

This cake is dubbed “crazy” because it’s made without the usual ingredients like eggs and milk, relying instead on some surprising pantry staples and a unique mixing method—dry ingredients mixed right in the pan! It’s a fun twist on traditional baking that yields fantastic results.

Can I substitute the olive oil?

Yes! While olive oil adds a subtle fruity note, you can swap it with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil if you prefer. Just keep the same amount to maintain moisture and texture.

Is this cake vegan?

The basic cake batter is vegan-friendly since it contains no eggs or dairy, but the frosting includes butter and cream. To make the whole recipe vegan, you could substitute plant-based butter and a dairy-free cream alternative easily.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend meant for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon to help the cake hold together nicely.

How long does the frosting take to make?

The frosting comes together quickly—just about 3 to 5 minutes with a hand mixer. It’s effortlessly smooth and fluffy, a perfect finishing touch to your Crazy Cake Recipe without any fuss.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried the Crazy Cake Recipe before, you’re truly missing out on a gem of a cake. It’s incredibly easy, utterly delicious, and perfect for those moments when you want homemade dessert without complicated steps or special ingredients. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the pure joy that comes from baking and sharing this delightful chocolate cake with friends and family!