Raisin "Depression" Cake
A moist, spiced raisin cake with warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, perfect for comforting desserts or tea time treats, suitable for those avoiding eggs and dairy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine raisins and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until raisins are soft, about 10 minutes.
- Drain raisins, reserving the cooking liquid, and mash or chop them as desired.
- Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the mashed raisins to the butter and sugar mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing well.
- If the batter appears too thick, add a little of the reserved raisin cooking liquid to loosen it.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider substituting half of the raisins with chopped dates or dried apricots. If you're out of allspice, a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg can work. For a healthier option, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure that the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar, which will help achieve a light and fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For a more festive presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar or serve alongside a slice of Chestnut Pie for a variety of textures and flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover 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 a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin "Depression" Cake contains roughly 768 calories, with 13g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (41% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1632mg per serving (71% 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?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like currants, cranberries, or chopped apricots. Each will impart a unique flavor to the cake. Just ensure to adjust the sweetness if using sweeter fruits.
What if I don't have baking powder?
If you don’t have baking powder, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/4 teaspoon baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice for every teaspoon of baking powder needed. This will help your cake rise effectively.
Is this cake suitable for vegans?
Yes! To make this cake vegan, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and use a flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg replacer if a binder is needed. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
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).