Poor Person'S Cake
A comforting, moist cake with sweet raisins, warm spices, and rich molasses flavor, perfect for a budget-friendly dessert or snack enjoyed plain or with toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put raisins, nutmeg, cinnamon, honey, molasses, oil, and water in a pot and boil for 3 minutes.
- Allow the mixture to cool.
- Add the dry ingredients to the cooled mixture and mix well.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve plain or with lemon sauce, ice cream, or whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister cake, consider adding an extra tablespoon of oil or a splash of vanilla extract. If you're out of honey, maple syrup can serve as a great substitute, although it will alter the flavor slightly. Ensure you mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid clumps and achieve an even texture. This cake is also a good base for a fruit topping like fresh berries.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own but can be elevated by serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of lemon sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with a side of Crisp-Tart Cole Slaw for a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a fruit compote.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a toaster oven until just heated through, which helps maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Person'S Cake contains roughly 434 calories, with 2g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 753mg per serving (33% 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 make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help with the cake's structure. Additionally, check your baking soda and baking powder to ensure they are gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this cake vegan, replace the honey with agave syrup or another plant-based sweetener. Since the recipe does not contain eggs or dairy, it’s already mostly vegan. Just ensure any additional toppings or accompaniments, like ice cream, are also vegan-friendly.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter turns out too thick, you can add a bit more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Keep in mind that a thicker batter will lead to a denser cake, so adjust according to your texture preference.
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).