Chocolate Decadence Cake

This has gotten such comments as: “This is the best cake I have ever eaten—vegan or not!” and “This should be illegal!” I find it is easier to double a recipe than to cut it in half, so I have given this version which makes for one 9 x 9-inch cake. Please note that this cake isn’t overly sweet by itself since it is meant to be paired with the frosting. However, the two combined are, in a word, sublime! To make a bundt cake, simply double this recipe and bake it slightly longer. For a bundt, you will also want to thin the frosting a bit with extra chocolate soymilk so that it “drizzles” properly. Alternatively, you can create a layer cake by doubling this recipe and baking two 9-inch round cakes. You would then place one on a plate and frost the top. Next, place the second cake on top of the frosting and then slather every visible surface with the remaining frosting.
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Oil a 9 x 9-inch pan or a dozen muffin cups. Mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately. Make sure each is lump-free and mixed very well.
2. Mix them together, but do not over-mix. Note that the batter will taste a bit odd at this point, but don’t be alarmed—any hint of vinegar will magically disappear once the cake is baked!
3. Pour into your oiled baking pan or muffin cups and bake until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. For cupcakes, this should take about 20 minutes. For cake, it will usually take 30 minutes or more.
4. Remove from the oven and allow your chocolate newborn to cool before you frost it.
5. To make the frosting, whip the margarine in a large bowl (using electric beaters) until it becomes somewhat fluffy. Slowly add in the remaining ingredients one at a time, in the order given. Beat at high speed until very fluffy, using a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. At this point, you will want to refrain from the temptation to shrink down to the size of a peanut and take a chocolate bath. You may regret it later. Next, refrigerate the frosting until the cake has cooled.
6. Frost your cake! Ideally, let the frosting warm to room temperature before serving the cake. Decorate with edible flowers, raspberries, strawberries, chocolate shavings, or anything else that makes you smile.