This $100 New York Chocolate Cake is a uniquely retro dessert known for its rich, moist texture and surprising use of salad dressing, typically Miracle Whip, as a key ingredient. Popular in mid-20th-century American kitchens, this cake leverages pantry staples to deliver a deep cocoa flavor and fluffy crumb without the need for eggs or butter. Its name may allude to the intensity of flavor or an old-fashioned baking trend. Beloved for its simplicity and surprising depth, it's a conversation-starter dessert ideal for gatherings or nostalgic baking sessions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour (sifted )
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp cocoa
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup Miracle Whip (or similar salad dressing)
- 1 cup cold water
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa, salt, and baking soda.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
- Add Miracle Whip, cold water, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Thoroughly
- Stir or beat until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Bake
- Pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Tips
- Add ½ to 1 cup chocolate chips for a richer, more modern twist.
- Substitute mayonnaise for Miracle Whip for a slightly denser crumb.
- Mix in ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon for a vintage Midwestern-style chocolate spice variation.
- Top with powdered sugar instead of frosting for a simple, old-fashioned finish.
- Bake as cupcakes (reduce baking time to ~20 minutes).
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a classic retro texture.
- Frost with chocolate buttercream, vanilla icing, or a cooked heritage frosting.
- Swap water for cooled coffee for deeper flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 2.8gFat: 9.5gSaturated Fat: 1.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.9gSodium: 335mgPotassium: 140mgFiber: 1.7gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 12mgIron: 1.4mg
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