Bake Like It's the Great Depression with Missouri's Classic Wowie Cake Recipe

Photo bydalle 3

Missouri is a state rich in tradition, and its culinary history reflects the resilience of its people. One dish that continues to stand the test of time is the Wowie Cake. Born during times of scarcity, this cake proves that simplicity and resourcefulness can yield something truly delicious. Known by various names across the country, including "Wacky Cake" and "Depression Cake," this humble dessert requires no eggs, butter, or milk, making it both budget-friendly and vegan.

The Wowie Cake gained popularity in Missouri and other parts of the U.S. during the Great Depression, a time when ingredients were hard to come by. The cake uses basic pantry items, such as flour, sugar, and cocoa, combined with oil and vinegar to create a moist and spongy texture. It’s perfect for those seeking a quick and easy dessert that doesn't skimp on taste. Plus, the cake is versatile enough to be served plain or with your favorite frosting, making it a delightful addition to any occasion.

Recipe: Missouri-Style Wowie Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1½ cups flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup cocoa
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• ⅓ cup oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup cold water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Sift together the sugar, flour, salt, cocoa, and baking soda directly into an ungreased 8x8-inch square pan.
3. Make three wells in the dry mixture. Pour vinegar into one, oil into the second, and vanilla into the third.
4. Add cold water over the entire mixture, then stir until well combined.
5. Bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool before serving, and enjoy it plain or topped with your favorite frosting.

This recipe showcases the ingenuity of those who lived through challenging times, yet still managed to create something sweet and satisfying. Today, the Wowie Cake remains a beloved dessert for those seeking nostalgia or a quick fix with simple ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just for yourself, this cake offers a taste of history with every bite.

Here are some reliable sources about the history of the Wowie Cake (also known as Wacky Cake or Depression Cake) and its origins:

1. Wikipedia - Wacky Cake: This article provides an overview of Wacky Cake, its ingredients, and how it became popular during times of scarcity like the Great Depression and World War II when eggs, butter, and milk were difficult to obtain. The simplicity of the recipe and its use of basic pantry ingredients made it a go-to dessert in rural America​(Wikipedia).
2. Quaint Cooking - The History of Wacky Cake: This blog post delves into personal stories surrounding the Wowie Cake, detailing how it has been passed down through generations. It discusses the cake's resurgence in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, when people once again found themselves needing simple, reliable recipes​(Quaint Cooking).
3. Depression Cake - Wikipedia: This entry explains the origins of Depression Cake, also known as War Cake, and its relationship to the economic hardships of the Great Depression and rationing during World Wars​(Wikipedia).

These sources offer detailed insights into the background and cultural significance of the Wowie Cake, tracing its history and modern-day appeal.