Anna'S Poor Man'S Cake
A hearty, spiced loaf combining raisins, nuts, and warm cinnamon flavors. Perfect for breakfast or tea, appealing to those who enjoy nostalgic, homemade baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugar together.
- Dissolve the baking soda in the hot water.
- Add the baking soda mixture, hot water, and sour milk to the creamed shortening and sugar; mix well.
- Add all the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- By hand, fold in the nuts and raisins.
- Grease and flour two bread pans.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half unsweetened applesauce in place of shortening. If you don't have sour milk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference, or add a touch of vanilla extract for extra flavor. This cake can be a delightful treat when served warm.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Anna's Poor Man's Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it a great choice for brunch or afternoon snacks. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Anna'S Poor Man'S Cake contains roughly 313 calories, with 4g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2479mg per serving (108% 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 different nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts or pecans for the nuts mentioned in the recipe. You can also omit them entirely if you prefer a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that this may slightly change the texture, but it will still be delicious!
What if I don't have raisins?
If you don't have raisins, you can use dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. These alternatives will add a different flavor profile while still keeping the cake moist and tasty.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake stores well and can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to keep it fresh. It will taste even better as the flavors meld together over time.
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).