Salt Pork Cake
A hearty, spiced salt pork cake with rich molasses and raisin flavors, perfect for rustic gatherings or comforting family desserts, showcasing classic American baking traditions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over the finely chopped salt pork; let stand until cool.
- Dissolve the baking soda in the molasses.
- Add the molasses mixture to the water and salt pork.
- Stir in sugar, raisins, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice).
- Gradually add flour and mix well to form a batter.
- Pour the batter into a 10-inch greased square baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a handful of chopped nuts for texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half the fat salt pork with unsalted butter or use a leaner cut. For a vegan option, try using mashed bananas or applesauce in place of the pork, but adjust the moisture accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Salt Pork Cake warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. It pairs nicely with a cup of coffee or tea. For a savory contrast, consider serving alongside Harry'S Slaw for a delightful balance of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Salt Pork Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it cold as a snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salt Pork Cake contains roughly 278 calories, with 4g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1213mg per serving (53% 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 a different type of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the fat salt pork with diced ham or even cooked bacon for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that the saltiness may vary, so adjust the sugar and spices accordingly.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking soda and any other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
How can I make this cake more moist?
To increase moisture, consider adding an extra egg or incorporating a bit of yogurt or sour cream into the batter. You can also slightly reduce the flour amount to keep the cake from becoming too dense.
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).