Old-Time Molasses Cake
Old-Time Molasses Cake is a nostalgic treat that brings together the rich flavors of molasses, warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, and the sweetness of sugar. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dessert, this cake is sure to please those who appreciate classic comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix self-rising flour, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine milk, molasses, eggs, and butter.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a round 9-inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by adding 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 0.5 teaspoons of salt to each cup of all-purpose flour. To enhance the spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg. This cake pairs beautifully with Aunt Eva'S Old Fashion Peach Shortcake for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake warm or at room temperature, perhaps topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. It goes wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh berries. For a unique twist, pair it with a cup of tea or coffee, creating a comforting afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover molasses cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Time Molasses Cake contains roughly 721 calories, with 9g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 another sweetener?
While molasses gives this cake its distinct flavor, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup in a pinch. However, keep in mind that the taste and texture will change slightly. If using honey or syrup, you may need to adjust the liquid content in the recipe.
What can I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or not measuring the flour correctly. Ensure you spoon the flour into the measuring cup without packing it down. If you prefer a lighter texture, try folding the dry ingredients into the wet instead of mixing vigorously.
How can I enhance the flavor of the cake?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of orange zest to the wet ingredients. These additions will brighten the overall taste and complement the spices beautifully, making your molasses cake even more delicious.
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).