Picnic Spice Cake
A moist, warmly spiced cake with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, perfect for picnics and gatherings, offering cozy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift all the dry ingredients together in a large mixer bowl. Add the shortening, milk, and vanilla.
- Beat on slow to medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Add the two large eggs and beat for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the Crisco with unsalted butter. You can also experiment with different spices; for example, replace nutmeg with allspice for a warm twist. If you prefer a lighter cake, use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid lumps and ensure an even texture.
Serving Suggestions
This spice cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert. It pairs beautifully with Snappy Fruit Dip for a fresh contrast. Serve it alongside tea or coffee for an afternoon treat, or pack it for picnics and gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Picnic Spice Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds or warm the whole cake in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picnic Spice Cake contains roughly 133 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 773mg per serving (34% 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 fat instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute Crisco with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. If using butter, ensure it is softened at room temperature for easier mixing. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still yield a delicious cake.
What can I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the rise. You can also try folding in beaten egg whites at the end for a lighter texture.
Can I add nuts or dried fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can enhance the flavor and texture of your Picnic Spice Cake. Just be sure to coat them lightly with flour before folding into the batter to prevent sinking.
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).