Great Grandma'S Soft Molasses Cake
A rich, moist molasses cake with warm spices, perfect for family gatherings or holiday desserts, offering nostalgic flavors and a tender, soft crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the sugar with the vegetable shortening and molasses until well blended.
- Alternately add the sifted dry ingredients and boiling water to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the well-beaten eggs.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake in a moderate 350°F oven for 30 minutes or until the center springs back.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of regular. You can substitute the vegetable shortening with unsalted butter for a different texture. If you prefer a spicier cake, add a bit more ground ginger or cinnamon. Make sure to sift your dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid clumps, which can affect the cake's softness.
Serving Suggestions
This soft molasses cake is delightful on its own, but you can enhance it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect choice for afternoon gatherings. For a twist, serve it alongside fresh fruit like Superb Strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover molasses 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, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it at room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Grandma'S Soft Molasses Cake contains roughly 354 calories, with 4g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 801mg per serving (35% 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 flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a heartier cake. However, this may alter the cake's moisture level, so consider adding a bit more liquid if needed. Always sift any alternative flour to ensure a light, fluffy result.
What can I do if my cake doesn't rise?
If your cake doesn't rise properly, it may be due to old baking soda or not mixing the ingredients enough. Always check the expiration date on your baking soda and ensure you properly cream the sugar and shortening. Additionally, make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F before baking.
Can I freeze molasses cake?
Yes, you can freeze molasses cake! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.
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).