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Easy sliceable picnic cake perfect for summer gatherings and outdoor activities.

Picnic Cake (Easy Sliceable Cake)

This sturdy yet soft chocolate cake is perfect for picnics, easy to slice and pack, and requires no fancy decorating.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar Reduce by 2 tablespoons for less sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup neutral oil (vegetable or canola) Can substitute with melted coconut oil.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider) Helps the cake rise.
  • 1 cup hot water Can also use hot coffee for deeper flavor.
For the quick fudge pour
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup hot milk Dairy or oat milk works nicely.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Optional but adds extra richness.
  • 1 pinch salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add the oil, vanilla, and vinegar to the dry ingredients.
  4. Slowly pour in the hot water while whisking until only a few lumps remain.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Making Fudge Pour
  1. While the cake bakes, heat the milk until hot but not boiling in a separate bowl.
  2. Combine chocolate, cocoa powder, brown sugar, butter, and salt in a bowl.
  3. Pour the hot milk over the mixture and whisk until glossy.
Soaking
  1. When the cake is done, poke holes all over the top with a skewer.
  2. Pour the warm fudge over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
  3. Let the cake cool fully before slicing.

Notes

Chill the cake for about 30 minutes before packing for a picnic. This helps the fudge layer remain neat during transport. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the refrigerator.