
Tootsie Fudge Cake is a rich, chocolatey dessert crafted with a blend of boxed fudge mix, traditional pantry ingredients, and a hint of nostalgia. Likely from mid-century America, this cake combines the convenience of a mix with the homemade charm of added flour, eggs, and milk. With its moist crumb and fudgy flavor, it’s perfect for casual gatherings, bake sales, or a family treat. The name “Tootsie” adds a playful, vintage flair to what’s essentially a quick-to-make but deeply satisfying chocolate cake.
Ingredients
- 15-18 oz fudge mix (1 box)
- ½ cup shortening
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup boiling water
- 1½ tsp cream of tartar
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Cream Base
- Cream together shortening with ½ the fudge mix.
Step 2: Add Eggs
- Add the beaten eggs and mix until combined.
Step 3: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
- Add remaining fudge mix, flour, cream of tartar, and salt. Alternate adding the dry mixture with the milk, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Activate Soda
- Dissolve baking soda in the hot boiling water. Stir into the batter.
Step 5: Add Vanilla
- Add vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
Step 6: Bake
- Pour batter into two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips
- Frost with classic chocolate buttercream or boiled fudge icing for authenticity
- Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify chocolate flavor
- Substitute half the shortening with butter for richer taste
- Use buttermilk instead of milk for a softer crumb
- Turn into cupcakes by baking 18 to 20 minutes
- Add chopped walnuts between layers for texture
- Serve slightly warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple vintage finish
Nutrition
Calories: 298kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 5gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 245mgPotassium: 221mgFiber: 2gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 65IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 44mgIron: 2mg
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