Grandma Kinney'S Plain Cake
A classic, moist vanilla cake with tender crumb, perfect for celebrations or everyday treats, suited for family gatherings and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shortening and sugar until well combined.
- Add remaining ingredients gradually and mix until smooth.
- Pour batter into prepared cake pans or baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before frosting or serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. This will reduce fat while keeping moisture. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. If you prefer a richer flavor, adding a bit of almond extract alongside the vanilla can enhance the taste. Also, make sure not to overmix the batter to avoid a dense texture.
Serving Suggestions
This plain cake is versatile and can be served simply dusted with powdered sugar or topped with your favorite frosting, such as chocolate or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful dessert. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Susie'S Potato Soup for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Kinney'S Plain Cake contains roughly 349 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 505mg per serving (22% 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 a different type of fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter or margarine for shortening in this recipe. Just keep in mind that butter will add a richer flavor and change the texture slightly, making the cake a bit denser but still delicious.
What can I do if my cake doesn't rise properly?
If your cake doesn't rise, it may be due to expired baking powder or not mixing the ingredients well enough. Always check the freshness of your baking powder before use, and ensure that you're mixing the batter until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can impact the rise.
How can I make this cake more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the batter. This will provide a fresh and zesty note. Additionally, you can mix in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile that complements the sweetness of the cake.
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).