Little Gumdrop Cake
A moist, caramel‑kissed loaf bursting with cinnamon, nutty crunch, raisin bursts and chewy gumdrops—perfect for nostalgic dessert lovers and kids alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the shortening, sugar, eggs and applesauce. Set aside.
- Sift together flour, cloves, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. Mix dry ingredients with the creamed mixture.
- Fold in the pecans or walnuts, raisins, and sliced gumdrops.
- Add vanilla and stir until incorporated.
- Grease and flour two loaf pans (or an angel food cake pan).
- Pour batter into pans and bake for 1 hour at 325°F.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the pecans or walnuts. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice for added flavor. Make sure to sift the flour to avoid lumps in the batter, ensuring a smooth and even texture.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful cake is perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack with coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving. It also works well as a centerpiece for holiday gatherings or parties, complementing dishes like Asparagus Pork Tenderloins.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Little Gumdrop Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Gumdrop Cake contains roughly 1760 calories, with 19g protein, 256g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 797mg 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 fresh fruit instead of raisins in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh fruits like chopped apples or pears for the raisins, but be mindful of the additional moisture they may add. Reduce the applesauce slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your Little Gumdrop Cake turns out dry, it may have been overbaked or lacked enough moisture. You can add a glaze made of powdered sugar and milk to enhance moisture. Additionally, serving it with a side of Cool Jello Salad can help balance the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture. Keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free flours can sometimes alter the cooking duration.
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).