Raisin-Nut Spice Cake
A moist, flavorful spice cake packed with raisins and nuts, perfect for holidays or teatime gatherings, offering warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Add the brown sugar, shortening, and buttermilk to the sifted ingredients and mix well.
- Beat vigorously for 2 minutes.
- Add eggs and beat for 2 minutes more.
- Fold in chopped nuts and raisins.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar for all the sweetness in this cake. If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure that you sift the dry ingredients well to incorporate air, which helps in achieving a light and fluffy cake. You can also add chopped apples for added moisture, similar to those in Soft Molasses Cake.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect for afternoon tea or as a dessert after a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. You might also serve it alongside whipped cream or a dollop of cream cheese frosting for added indulgence. It complements well with savory dishes like Rio Grill Pork Chops, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Consider garnishing with additional nuts or raisins for a decorative touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Raisin-Nut Spice Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it can last up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold as a delightful treat. This cake can also be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin-Nut Spice Cake contains roughly 342 calories, with 6g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value), calcium (10% of the Daily Value), and potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 854mg per serving (37% 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 different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chopped nuts, you can use walnuts, pecans, or even almonds based on your preference. Just make sure to chop them roughly so they distribute evenly in the batter and provide a nice crunch. Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts to tailor the cake to your taste.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the cake's texture. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients used are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
How can I make the cake more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your Raisin-Nut Spice Cake, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or orange zest to the batter. You can also incorporate other spices such as cardamom or ginger for a more complex flavor profile. Experimenting with the spices will give the cake a unique twist that you might enjoy.
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).