Pork Cake

Cook: 15 min

Pork Cake is a rich, spiced dessert featuring a hearty blend of raisins, molasses, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Its moist texture and deep flavors make it a comforting treat suitable for festive occasions or cozy gatherings, offering a unique twist on traditional cakes.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 lb. lard
  • 3 c. molasses
  • 6 c. sugar
  • 4 tsp. baking soda
  • 2 qt. boiling water
  • 4 tsp. nutmeg
  • 3 Tbsp. cinnamon
  • 2 Tbsp. cloves
  • 2 Tbsp. salt
  • 4 lb. raisins
  • 14 c. flour

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
  2. Pour the batter into a baking dish.
  3. Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes.
  4. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue baking until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using half lard and half unsalted butter. If molasses is unavailable, dark corn syrup can be a suitable substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Ensure your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking. Mixing the dry ingredients separately before adding to the wet can help avoid lumps in the batter.

Serving Suggestions

This pork cake is delightful on its own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Pair it with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. It also complements savory dishes like Steak Stir-Fry On A Bed Of Rice, providing a nice contrast in flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover pork cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm pieces in a microwave for about 20 seconds or briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pork Cake contains roughly 3707 calories, with 47g protein, 423g carbohydrates, and 211g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (212% of the Daily Value), calcium (102% of the Daily Value), and iron (100% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

3707 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 47g 94% DV
Total Fat 210.5g 100% DV
Carbs 422.9g 100% DV
Fiber 59.2g 100% DV
Sugar 136.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1965.3mg 42% DV
Cholesterol 34.3mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9.4mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 58.5mg 65% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 1% DV
Calcium 1319.9mg 100% DV
Iron 18.1mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains 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 fresh fruit instead of raisins?

Yes, you can substitute fresh fruits like chopped apples or pears for raisins, but adjust the sugar in the recipe to account for the sweetness of the fruit. Keep in mind that fresh fruit may add moisture, so you might need to slightly reduce the liquid ingredients.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Pork cake freezes well. After baking and cooling, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

While you can reduce the sugar, it’s essential to remember that it not only sweetens but also contributes to the cake's moisture and texture. Reducing sugar by about 20% is a safe option without significantly impacting the outcome. Consider adding spices or a fruit puree for additional flavor.

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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