Gram'S Raisin Cake(100 Year Old Recipe)

Prep: 15 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A rich, fruity raisin cake with warm spices and a moist texture, perfect for family gatherings or afternoon tea. The combination of raisins, walnuts, and aromatic spices creates a nostalgic flavor profile that appeals to those who enjoy classic, old-fashioned baked goods with a touch of warmth.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 4 tablespoons cocoa
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • 2/3 cup butter
  • 2 cups raisins
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice
  • 3 1/2 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup walnuts

Instructions

  1. Mix sugar and cocoa together in a bowl.
  2. Add water, butter, spices, and salt; bring to a boil and cook for 4 minutes.
  3. Allow the mixture to cool.
  4. Sift together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
  5. Add the sifted dry ingredients to the cooled raisin mixture and blend well.
  6. Stir in chopped walnuts.
  7. Pour the batter into a greased Bundt pan.
  8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you prefer a nut-free option, you can omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds. Ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing, and if you want a more intense chocolate flavor, increase the cocoa to 5 tablespoons. To enhance the spices, try adding a splash of vanilla extract.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Gram'S Raisin Cake(100 Year Old Recipe) contains roughly 1411 calories, with 24g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 113g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1932mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).

1411 kcal 71% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 24.2g 48% DV
Total Fat 112.8g 100% DV
Carbs 94.2g 34% DV
Fiber 26.2g 93% DV
Sugar 20.6g 41% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1931.9mg 84% DV
Potassium 934.8mg 20% DV
Cholesterol 4.9mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 5.2mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 20.6mg 23% DV
Calcium 511.1mg 39% DV
Iron 7mg 39% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

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 other types of dried fruit instead of raisins?

Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like currants or chopped dried apricots. Keep in mind that each fruit will impart its unique flavor, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite combination.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. Additionally, check that all other ingredients are gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a great idea for an extra chocolatey flavor. You can mix in about 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips with the walnuts before pouring the batter into the pan for a delightful 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).

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