Old-Fashioned Molasses Stack Cake
Old-Fashioned Molasses Stack Cake offers rich, spiced layers infused with deep molasses flavor. Perfect for cozy gatherings, it features moist, flavorful layers with a hint of ginger and allspice, complemented by sweetened applesauce between the tiers. A nostalgic treat that balances sweetness and spice beautifully.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and shortening together.
- Add molasses and mix well.
- Beat in eggs until well combined.
- Mix dry ingredients with flour.
- Stir water and dry ingredients alternately into molasses-shortening mixture.
- Work in flour until you have a stiff dough.
- Roll the dough rather thin.
- Cut out layers using a dinner-sized plate or old-fashioned pie pan with scalloped edges.
- Bake the dough on a baking sheet or in layer cake pans at 375°F until fairly brown.
- For two cakes, bake four or five layers for each cake; for one large cake, bake six layers.
- When serving the large cake, cut through only three layers.
- Warm the applesauce slightly and spread between the layers of the cake.
- Avoid putting applesauce on the top layer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. Adjust the flour based on humidity; start with 10 cups and add more as needed to achieve a stiff dough. If you want a spicier flavor, increase the ginger or allspice. Remember to roll the dough thin for optimal baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cake with a generous layer of warm applesauce between the layers for added moisture and flavor. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful contrast. This cake also goes well with a cup of spiced tea or coffee, enhancing its rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover layers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If refrigerating, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. To reheat, warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 20 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Molasses Stack Cake contains roughly 688 calories, with 10g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2024mg per serving (88% 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 flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a denser texture, or use a gluten-free flour blend if needed. Just keep in mind that the amount of flour required may vary, so adjust accordingly until you achieve a stiff dough.
How can I make this cake less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, cut back on the molasses by half a cup and add a bit more flour to maintain the dough's consistency. You can also use unsweetened applesauce instead of sweetened for the filling, which will balance the flavors.
Is it possible to freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and reheat the applesauce before layering.
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).