Great Depression Cake
A nostalgic, moist cake with rich flavors of spices, raisins, and walnuts, perfect for sharing during cozy gatherings or as a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, simmer the sugar, strong coffee, shortening, raisins, and grated apple.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Mix in flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and chopped walnuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don't have shortening, vegetable oil can be a suitable substitute. You can also add chopped nuts or shredded coconut for extra texture. Make sure to cool the mixture completely before adding the dry ingredients to ensure the cake rises properly.
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 a special treat. It pairs beautifully with Marinated New Potatoes for a comforting meal. Consider serving it alongside a cup of strong coffee to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Great Depression 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, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Depression Cake contains roughly 665 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 880mg per serving (38% 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 decaffeinated coffee instead of strong coffee?
Yes, you can use decaffeinated coffee if you prefer a caffeine-free option. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying. Just ensure it is strong enough to complement the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum to help with texture. This makes the cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Certainly! You can incorporate other fruits like mashed bananas or shredded carrots for added moisture and flavor. Just keep in mind that the total amount of fruit should remain similar to maintain the cake's consistency.
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).