Mom And Dad'S Poor Man'S Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

A rich, moist cake with warm spices and sweet raisins, perfect for family gatherings or cozy desserts that evoke nostalgic comfort and hearty flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 box raisins
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 cup shortening
  • 3 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon cloves
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 6 to 8 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Cover raisins with hot water and cook for 15 minutes.
  2. Drain the raisins and reserve the raisin water.
  3. Mix all other ingredients including the raisins and the raisin water.
  4. Pour the batter into a greased Bundt pan or two loaf pans.
  5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. You can also experiment with different spices or add chopped nuts for extra texture. If you prefer a denser cake, reduce the flour to 6 cups. Be sure to drain the raisins well to prevent excess moisture in the batter, which can affect the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mom And Dad'S Poor Man'S Cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful dessert spread, consider serving it alongside Fluffy Orange Jello Salad, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mom And Dad'S Poor Man'S Cake contains roughly 1519 calories, with 11g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 126g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (140% of the Daily Value), calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2602mg per serving (113% of the Daily Value).

1519 kcal 76% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.3g 23% DV
Total Fat 125.9g 100% DV
Carbs 99.3g 36% DV
Fiber 39.1g 100% DV
Sugar 6.6g 13% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2601.8mg 100% DV
Potassium 717.7mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9.1mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 14.5mg 16% DV
Calcium 614mg 47% DV
Iron 6.4mg 35% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Wheat/Gluten

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 different types of dried fruit instead of raisins?

Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits such as chopped dates, apricots, or cranberries. Just ensure they are chopped into similar sizes for even distribution in the batter. Adjust the water slightly if using fruits that are less absorbent than raisins.

What if I don't have shortening?

If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. This will add a slightly different flavor and texture, but the cake will still be delicious. Make sure to soften the butter before mixing it with other ingredients.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! This cake freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply 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).

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