Molasses Layer Cake
A rich, moist molasses layer cake infused with warm spices and filled with tender prepared apples. Its deep flavor profile makes it perfect for cozy gatherings and autumn celebrations, offering a delightful combination of sweetness, spice, and fruit in every slice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put molasses in a saucepan and warm it on the stove, then stir in the baking soda and remove from heat.
- The molasses will turn yellow as the soda reacts.
- Beat the eggs lightly in a bowl.
- In the molasses mixture, stir in all remaining ingredients except the apples.
- Gradually add enough self-rising flour to make a dough similar to biscuit dough.
- Grease a cake pan and roll out or pat the dough into a thin layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the surface is light brown, about 25 minutes.
- Once baked and cooled, spread prepared apples between the layers to assemble the cake.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute all-purpose flour combined with 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt for every cup needed. For a different twist, try incorporating chopped nuts or raisins into the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with prepared apples, which add a fruity contrast. For a more festive presentation, consider drizzling with caramel sauce or serving alongside Maple Syrup Muffins for a brunch theme.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Molasses Layer Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Layer Cake contains roughly 324 calories, with 2g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 568mg per serving (25% 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 substitute the molasses with something else?
While molasses gives this cake its unique flavor, you can use dark corn syrup or honey as a substitute in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly, and the cake may be sweeter.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when the surface is light brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the cake.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Assemble the cake with prepared apples just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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).