Canadian War Cake
A rich, spiced fruit cake with deep flavors from raisins and warm spices, perfect for sharing during holidays or cozy gatherings. Suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, Crisco, butter, all spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and raisins in a saucepan and boil for 5 minutes.
- Let the mixture cool completely.
- Add 4 cups of sifted self-rising flour to the cooled mixture.
- Dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 2 tablespoons of warm water and add to the batter.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 30-45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the all spice or add a pinch of ground ginger. Make sure to sift the flour before adding it to ensure a light texture. To enhance the moisture, you can also add a splash of orange juice or zest. Remember to keep an eye on the baking time as ovens vary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Canadian War Cake as a delightful dessert alongside a cup of tea or coffee. It pairs beautifully with Cocoa Fruit Breakfast Drink for a unique twist. You can also top it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a festive touch, consider serving it with Apricot-Coconut Cheese Balls as part of a dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Canadian War Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Canadian War Cake contains roughly 1236 calories, with 1g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 123g fat.
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 regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour by adding 1 teaspoon of baking powder for each cup of flour used. This will mimic the leavening effect of self-rising flour, ensuring your cake rises properly.
How can I make this cake more moist?
To enhance moisture, try adding an extra tablespoon of butter or incorporating a mashed ripe banana or unsweetened applesauce into the batter. This will not only add moisture but also impart a subtle sweetness.
Can I add nuts or other dried fruits to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots. Just be sure to keep the total volume of additions similar to the raisins to maintain the cake's texture.
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).