Old Timer Spice Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

A nostalgic spice cake featuring warm cinnamon and allspice flavors, moist and flavorful, perfect for cozy gatherings or afternoon tea enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 eggs
  • 3/4 cup butter or lard
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • pinch of salt
  • 1 cup sour milk or buttermilk
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
  3. Pour batter into a greased baking pan.
  4. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using half butter and half lard in the recipe. You can substitute the sour milk with plain yogurt or a milk-lemon juice mixture for a similar tanginess. If you prefer a spicier cake, increase the cinnamon and allspice slightly. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution.

Serving Suggestions

This Old Timer Spice Cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee for a cozy treat. For a festive touch, consider serving it with a side of Cherry Cheese Cups for dessert gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it will keep for about a week. To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old Timer Spice Cake contains roughly 1180 calories, with 6g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1045mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).

1180 kcal 59% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.1g 12% DV
Total Fat 79g 100% DV
Carbs 114.2g 42% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 59.1g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1044.9mg 45% DV
Potassium 383.4mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 299.2mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 29mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 1.2mg 1% DV
Calcium 523.5mg 40% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% DV
Contains Milk Egg 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 regular milk instead of sour milk or buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk by adding one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to it and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes to sour. This will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and help the cake rise properly.

What can I do if my cake is too dry?

If your cake turns out dry, you can brush it with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water. Alternatively, serve it with a creamy frosting or sauce, like a cream cheese frosting, to add moisture and flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum to help with texture. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary slightly with gluten-free flours.

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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