Herman Cake
Herman Cake is a moist, spiced quick bread with a rich cinnamon flavor and nutty texture, complemented by raisins. Its hearty taste and simple ingredients make it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy homemade baked goods with a touch of nostalgia.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs, sugar, and oil with a mixer until well combined.
- Stir Herman, baking soda, salt, flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, raisins, and 1/2 cup nuts or walnut flavoring together with a spoon.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan or two loaf pans and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding chocolate chips or swapping nuts for seeds if you have nut allergies. You can also substitute applesauce for half of the oil to reduce fat content while keeping moisture. Ensure your Herman starter is active for the best results, and consider using whole wheat flour for added texture and health benefits.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Herman Cake warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea and makes a delightful dessert after a family meal. For a complete spread, consider serving alongside Baked Brie With Crudites for a balanced treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Herman Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herman Cake contains roughly 530 calories, with 9g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 872mg 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 make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes of baking, as oven temperatures can vary. Typically, baking will take around 30-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Can I freeze Herman Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze Herman Cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container. It will maintain its quality for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, or heat individual slices as needed.
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).