Lenten Spice Cake
A moist, spiced cake with raisins and warming flavors, perfect for Lent or any occasion craving a hearty, flavorful dessert without icing. Suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine raisins or dried fruit, sugar, shortening, spices, and salt (cloves may be omitted).
- Bring to a boil and cook for 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Sift flour with baking soda.
- Gradually blend the sifted flour into the cooled mixture, mixing thoroughly.
- Spread the batter into a well-greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan on a rack.
- Alternatively, bake in a large 1-inch deep cookie sheet for 45 to 50 minutes.
- No icing is needed for this cake.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try substituting half the vegetable shortening with applesauce. If you prefer a lighter cake, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure to check the spice levels; adjust the nutmeg and cinnamon according to your taste preference. This cake is perfect for a cozy gathering, especially when paired with a hot beverage.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Lenten Spice Cake into squares and serve it plain, as no icing is needed. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider serving it alongside Green Beans With Mushrooms And Garlic for a well-rounded meal or as a delightful afternoon snack with tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Lenten Spice Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm it briefly in the microwave or oven, ensuring it stays moist and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lenten Spice Cake contains roughly 1024 calories, with 7g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2310mg per serving (100% 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 fresh fruit instead of raisins?
While raisins are traditional, you can substitute them with fresh fruit, such as diced apples or pears. However, be mindful that fresh fruit may add extra moisture to the batter, so adjust the flour accordingly to maintain the right consistency.
Is this cake suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Lenten Spice Cake can easily be made vegan by replacing the vegetable shortening with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Additionally, ensure that the sugar used is free from animal products; many brands are vegan-friendly.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor. A splash of vanilla extract can also elevate the taste. You might even try incorporating a bit of orange zest for a citrusy hint that complements the spices beautifully.
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).