Jimmy Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Jimmy Cake is a rich, moist cake featuring coffee, chocolate jimmies, and optional nuts, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and depth. Its tender crumb and crunchy topping make it perfect for parties, coffee breaks, or any celebration where a nostalgic, flavorful dessert is appreciated.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. shortening
  • 1 c. white sugar
  • 1 c. powdered sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 tsp. baking powder
  • 2 c. flour
  • 1 c. strong coffee
  • 1 c. chopped nuts (optional)
  • 1 c. chocolate jimmies

Instructions

  1. Cream the shortening and sugars together.
  2. Separate the eggs; add the yolks to the creamed mixture.
  3. Mix the flour and baking powder together.
  4. Add the flour mixture alternately with the strong coffee to the batter.
  5. Stir in the chopped nuts (if using) and chocolate jimmies.
  6. Beat the egg whites until stiff; fold into the batter gently.
  7. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
  8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened cocoa powder in place of some flour. If you want a lighter texture, beat the egg whites separately and fold them in gently, as instructed. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter for a different taste, or use a dairy-free option for a vegan twist. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon can enhance the overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Jimmy Cake as a delightful dessert paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or tea, making it perfect for brunch or afternoon gatherings. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Praline Sweet Potatoes during holiday meals.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Jimmy 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, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it chilled for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Jimmy Cake contains roughly 611 calories, with 7g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), iron (15% of the Daily Value), and calcium (12% of the Daily Value).

611 kcal 31% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.4g 15% DV
Total Fat 31.3g 40% DV
Carbs 77.2g 28% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 21.6g 43% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 221.3mg 10% DV
Potassium 303.1mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 54.8mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 35.1mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 159.2mg 12% DV
Iron 2.6mg 15% DV
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 sweetener in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the white sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cake. Adjust the amounts according to the sweetness level of the alternative used.

What can I use instead of chocolate jimmies?

If you don't have chocolate jimmies, you can use chocolate chips, chopped chocolate, or sprinkles of your choice. For a healthier option, try using chopped dried fruit or additional nuts to add texture without the sweetness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version of Jimmy Cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free, and keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free cakes can differ in texture.

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).

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