Spice Raisin Cake
A moist, spiced raisin cake filled with warm cinnamon and cloves, perfect for cozy gatherings or as a delicious dessert for fans of fruity, flavorful baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil raisins in 2 cups water for 10 minutes.
- Save 1 cup of raisin juice for the cake.
- Cream together shortening, sugar, and eggs.
- Add flour, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, salt, raisins, and the reserved raisin juice.
- Mix until well combined.
- Pour batter into a greased tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar to 1 cup. To prevent raisins from sinking to the bottom, toss them in a bit of flour before adding them to the batter. This cake is great for gatherings, and pairs beautifully with Fudge Waffles for a delightful breakfast twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spice Raisin Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. It pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top or drizzle with a simple icing. This cake can also be enjoyed alongside a fresh Seabreeze Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Spice Raisin Cake to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices individually, then reheat in the microwave for a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spice Raisin Cake contains roughly 615 calories, with 4g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1019mg per serving (44% 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 types of dried fruit in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like chopped dates, apricots, or cranberries. Just ensure to adjust the soaking time as needed to keep the fruit tender. This flexibility allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, it may have been overbaked. To remedy this, serve it with a sauce or syrup, such as a simple vanilla glaze. You can also add a bit of extra moisture by spreading a thin layer of fruit preserves over the top before serving.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, especially baking soda, are gluten-free as well. This makes it suitable for those following gluten-free diets while still enjoying American recipes.
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).