Grace Haley'S War Cake
Grace Haley's War Cake is a rich, spiced dessert with deep flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Its moist texture and hearty ingredients make it perfect for cozy gatherings or as a nostalgic treat. Enhancements like walnuts and candied fruits can elevate this traditional cake to a festive delight.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, water, and shortening in a large saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add raisins and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves) and cook for a few minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the boiling mixture, stirring well.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more moist cake, you can substitute half of the water with brewed coffee or tea. If you don't have shortening, butter or a plant-based alternative can be used instead. Ensure to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid clumps, and consider adding nuts for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
This War Cake is delightful on its own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. It also complements well with a light salad like Pawleys Pearls Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grace Haley'S War Cake contains roughly 995 calories, with 12g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1500mg per serving (65% 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 dried fruits instead of raisins?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits such as currants, chopped dates, or even dried cranberries. Each of these will add a unique flavor and texture to the cake, making it your own.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Be sure to check that your baking soda is gluten-free as well. This will allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delicious cake.
How can I enhance the flavor profile of the cake?
Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of orange zest to the batter for an extra layer of flavor. You could also experiment with different spice combinations, such as cardamom or allspice, for a unique twist.
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).