Gum Candy Cake
A nostalgic gum candy cake combining fruity applesauce, warm spices, and chewy orange gum candy pieces, perfect for celebrations or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening, sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy.
- Sift dry ingredients together: flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with applesauce, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Stir in chopped nuts and raisins, and cut up gum candy slices into the batter.
- Pour the batter into greased, paper-lined pans, filling no more than two-thirds full.
- Bake in a 325°F (163°C) oven for 1 1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter or swapping half of the applesauce for mashed bananas. If you prefer a nut-free option, you can omit the chopped nuts entirely or replace them with a mix of dried fruits. Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a warm beverage like chai tea or coffee for a comforting treat. It also makes a wonderful dessert at gatherings, complementing savory dishes like Mushroom Baked Sole.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Gum Candy Cake to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices, which can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gum Candy Cake contains roughly 1589 calories, with 19g protein, 199g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 substitute the shortening in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for the shortening. This will give the cake a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious. Just ensure that the butter is softened and at room temperature before creaming.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of Gum Candy Cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help with the texture. Additionally, check that all other ingredients, such as baking soda and spices, are certified gluten-free.
What can I use instead of gum candy?
If you can't find gum candy or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with chopped dried fruit such as apricots or cherries for a chewy texture. Alternatively, chocolate chips or caramels can add a different but equally delightful sweetness to 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).