Poor Man'S Cake
Poor Man's Cake is a hearty, spiced raisin cake with warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Its moist texture and rich taste make it a comforting dessert perfect for budget-friendly baking or casual gatherings. An easy-to-make treat that combines simple ingredients into a delicious, nostalgic dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the Crisco, raisins, sugar, and boiling water and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and baking soda; let cool slightly.
- Add flour and baking powder to the mixture.
- Pour batter into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For an alternative to Crisco, you can use unsalted butter or coconut oil. If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. Using organic raisins can enhance the flavor and texture. Additionally, adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can provide a delightful crunch, making this cake even more satisfying. Check out related American recipes for more inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Poor Man's Cake warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. For a contrasting side, consider a light salad like 'Late Louise Holland'S' Vegetable Salad to balance the sweetness. Enjoy it as a delightful dessert or an afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Poor Man's 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, slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a quick snack. The flavors can deepen after a day or two.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Man'S Cake contains roughly 1099 calories, with 20g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (104% of the Daily Value), iron (56% of the Daily Value), and protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 680mg per serving (30% 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 other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or even chopped dates for different flavor profiles. Each will add its unique sweetness and texture to the cake, making it versatile for personal taste preferences.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Baking times may vary slightly based on your oven, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make Poor Man's Cake vegan, replace Crisco with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Ensure the sugar used is vegan-friendly, and you're all set. The cake will still be delicious and moist, perfect for anyone following vegan recipes.
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).