Aid Society Cake
A moist, spiced raisin cake with warm cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, perfect for teatime or special occasions, offering rich flavors and nostalgic appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stew the raisins in 2 cups of water for 15 minutes.
- Cool the raisin mixture, then add 1 cup of cold water, shortening, sugar, and spices. Mix well.
- Add flour and baking soda to the mixture.
- Pour the batter into a large angel food cake pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, which adds depth. If you're out of shortening, coconut oil or butter can be used as substitutes. To enhance the spice profile, add a pinch of ground ginger. Ensure the raisins are well-stewed for a plumper texture. Mixing in some chopped nuts could offer a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own but can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving it alongside Citrus And Rice Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Aid Society Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate, where it can last up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aid Society Cake contains roughly 1959 calories, with 15g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 166g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (209% of the Daily Value), iron (96% of the Daily Value), and calcium (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1902mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh raisins instead of dried?
It's best to use dried raisins for this recipe, as fresh ones contain too much moisture and won't provide the same chewy texture. Dried raisins have a concentrated flavor that complements the spices in the cake.
What kind of flour should I use?
All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, as it provides the right structure and texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be used as a substitute without affecting the outcome significantly.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! The Aid Society Cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just ensure it's stored properly in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).