Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) water
  • ⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp instant coffee powder (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  3. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients, and add the water, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract. If using, add the instant coffee powder.
  4. Gently whisk all the ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.