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 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Tips
- Use mayonnaise if Miracle Whip is unavailable, flavor will be slightly less tangy.
- Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture.
- Top with powdered sugar or your favorite frosting once cooled.
- For cupcakes, reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes.
- Substitute half the water with coffee for richer chocolate flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 239kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 2gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.02gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 457mgPotassium: 75mgFiber: 2gSugar: 29gVitamin A: 23IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 53mgIron: 2mg
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