This shockingly easy–and tasty–old fashioned recipe is from page 114 of the Depression Era recipes cookbook by Patricia R. Wagner. It says shortening or lard, but use lard. Your cake will be even moister and more delicious, promise! I changed the order of the ingredients and the directions just a little:
- 1/2 c boiling water
- 1 t baking soda
- 2 c sugar
- 1/2 c lard (or shortening, if you must!)
- 2 eggs
- pinch of salt (I used a generous pinch)
- 1/2 c cocoa
- 1 c sour milk (add 1 t lemon juice to 1 c milk and let sit 15 minutes)
- 1 t vanilla (optional)
- 2 1/2 c flour
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Put boiling water in a bowl, add baking soda and dissolve. Add remaining ingredients in order one at a time, stirring after each addition. Grease and flour your baking pans, and pour in the batter. Bake 45 to 50 minutes.
Great photos. Yes it’s been a struggle, but we are learning tons. I wouldn’t want to be working on the adventure with anyone but you. You work so hard on all aspects of this journey and I so appreciate it. I love you.