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–+ servings
$100 New York Chocolate Cake
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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 245 kcal

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 9x13 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
Keyword bars easy dessert, chocolate, chocolate cake, cocoa, comfort food, easy, heirloom recipe, miracle whip cake, one-bowl cake, retro baking, vintage recipe
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