Mum'S Molasses Cake
A moist molasses cake with warm spices and raisins, perfect for cozy gatherings and loved for its rich, comforting flavor and tender crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together molasses, sugar, and shortening.
- Add eggs to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Sift flour, cinnamon, ginger, and salt together.
- Dissolve baking soda in boiling hot water.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the hot water mixture.
- Stir in raisins.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
- Allow to cool before serving and top with whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Make sure to sift the flour and spices to ensure an even distribution of flavors. For a spicier kick, increase the ginger to 1 teaspoon. This cake also works well with the addition of nuts for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mum's Molasses Cake warm or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream for a delightful finish. It pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it a perfect dessert for afternoon gatherings. You can also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert option, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This will keep the cake moist and delicious, making it a perfect treat paired with a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mum'S Molasses Cake contains roughly 358 calories, with 5g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% 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 a different type of sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with brown sugar or honey. Keep in mind that honey may add extra moisture, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly. Brown sugar will enhance the molasses flavor, giving the cake a deeper taste.
Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture. The baking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on the cake as it bakes.
How can I make this cake more festive?
To make it more festive, consider adding spices like nutmeg or allspice to the mix. You can also decorate the top with chopped nuts, dried fruits, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Serving it with a spiced cider can elevate the holiday feel.
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).