Porter Cake
A rich, fruity Porter Cake packed with raisins, cherries, almonds, and mixed peel, perfect for festive occasions and loved for its deep, spiced flavors and moist texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub butter into flour and add all other dry ingredients.
- Blend very well.
- Beat eggs with lukewarm Guinness and add bicarbonate of soda.
- Mix this very well into dry cake mixture.
- Turn the mixture into a greased, lined 9-inch diameter, 3-inch high cake tin.
- Cover with grease-proof paper and bake at 200° to 250°F for 3 to 3½ hours, removing the paper for the last half-hour.
- Test with a skewer for doneness.
- Allow to cool, then optionally ice to extend shelf life or enhance presentation.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy blending. If you prefer, substitute half of the almonds with walnuts for a different texture. You can also replace half of the raisins with dried cranberries for a tart twist. Make sure to mix the batter thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients evenly, ensuring a moist cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Porter Cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light glaze for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful afternoon treat, enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect complement to a cozy gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Porter Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two weeks. To reheat, slice the cake and warm it gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy it at its best.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Porter Cake contains roughly 1333 calories, with 19g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1392mg per serving (61% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, the Porter Cake actually improves in flavor after a day or two. Baking it ahead allows the flavors to meld together. Just remember to wrap it well to keep it moist and store it in a cool, dry place.
What can I use if I don't have Guinness?
If you don't have Guinness on hand, you can substitute it with another dark beer like stout or porter, or opt for non-alcoholic versions available. For a non-beer option, use a mix of strong brewed coffee and water for a similar richness.
How can I tell when the cake is done?
To test for doneness, insert a skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is ready. Keep an eye on the baking time as ovens vary, and remember to remove the grease-proof paper during the last half-hour.
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).