Mary'S Spice Cake
Mary's Spice Cake is a moist, richly spiced dessert featuring cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, perfect for cozy gatherings and spice lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, water, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves in a saucepan and bring to a rapid boil. Boil for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and cool for at least 2 hours.
- After cooling, add 3 cups of flour and 2 teaspoons of baking soda to the mixture and mix well.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. You can also substitute half the shortening with applesauce for a lighter version. If you prefer a spicier cake, feel free to increase the spices slightly. Make sure to sift your flour to avoid lumps and ensure a light texture. This cake pairs beautifully with Cranberry Cream Punch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious spice cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It also goes well with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider pairing it with a fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spice cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Spice Cake contains roughly 500 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Yes, you can substitute fresh fruit like diced apples or pears for raisins, but you'll need to adjust the moisture content in the recipe. Fresh fruit may require less water or additional flour to ensure the batter isn't too wet.
How can I make this cake healthier?
To make this spice cake healthier, you can reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute or by adding mashed bananas for sweetness. Additionally, using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour can increase the fiber content.
Can I freeze the spice cake?
Yes, you can freeze the spice cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).