Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8X8-inch baking pan and set aside. For glass pans, reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F.

Step 2

Whisk flour, brown sugar, baking soda and salt together in a medium bowl.

Step 3

Make a well in the center and add the water, oil, vinegar, vanilla extract and chocolate chips. Stir until just combined and no dry streaks remain.

Step 4

Pour the batter in the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top springs back lightly to the touch and a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Add additional time, as needed (might need a few more minutes if baking in a glass pan at 325 degrees F).

Step 5

Optional: dust the top of the cake or individual slices with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.