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–+ servings
Tootsie Fudge Cake
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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 298 kcal

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
Keyword chocolate dessert, comfort food, fudge cake, homemade cake, layer cake, retro recipe, vintage baking
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