How to Make Pennsylvania Dutch Funny Cake - A Step-by-Step Guide

Pennsylvania Dutch Funny Cake is a traditional dessert that has been enjoyed by generations in the Pennsylvania Dutch community. This delightful cake is a perfect combination of rich chocolate and tender yellow cake, all mixed together in a unique and surprising way. The origins of the Funny Cake date back to the 1800s, when German settlers brought their culinary traditions to Pennsylvania and blended them with local ingredients and techniques. Today, the Funny Cake is a beloved recipe that c...

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups sugar, divided
  • ½ cup baking cocoa
  • 1 ½ cups milk, divided
  • 2 (9 inch) unbaked pastry shells
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons shortening
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup Whipped cream

Information

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 40 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr
  • Servings: 12
  • Yield: 12 servings

  • In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and cocoa. Blend in 1/2 cup milk. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil. Cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Pour into unbaked pastry shells, tipping to coat the pastry halfway up the sides; set aside. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt and remaining sugar. Add egg, shortening, vanilla and remaining milk; beat until smooth. Starting at the edge, spoon batter into the pastry shells, completely covering the chocolate. Bake at 350 degrees F for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Serve warm or chilled with whipped cream if desired.