Molasses Cake
Molasses cake offers a rich, moist texture with warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Its deep molasses flavor makes it perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations. The moist crumb and spicy-sweet aroma make it a comforting treat for those who love bold, flavorful desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix and sift the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Blend in the molasses and stir in 1/2 cup of the flour mixture.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time.
- Add hot water alternately with the remaining flour mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the batter into greased and floured pans.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes.
- Cool the cake and then ice as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the shortening with applesauce or yogurt. If you want to enhance the spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients well to avoid lumps and ensure an even texture. If you don't have molasses, dark corn syrup can be a suitable substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of molasses cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs well with a cup of spiced tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider icing it with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze. This cake also makes a wonderful base for seasonal desserts, such as the Sour Cream Apple Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover molasses cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a conventional oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Cake contains roughly 215 calories, with 3g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1055mg per serving (46% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture will be denser. For best results, use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to maintain some lightness while adding more nutrients.
Why is my molasses cake dense?
A dense cake can result from overmixing the batter or not properly measuring the flour. Ensure you spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off. Mixing just until ingredients are combined can help achieve a lighter texture.
Can I freeze molasses cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw 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).