Spicy Raisin Cake
A moist, spicy raisin cake infused with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, perfect for tea time or as a comforting dessert for friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour an 8x8 or 9x9-inch square pan.
- In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves.
- In a separate bowl, mix milk, shortening, and egg until well blended.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the raisins.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option. If you're looking to enhance the spice profile, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. Ensure you fold in the raisins gently to keep the batter light and airy. This cake is a delightful addition to your dessert table during festive occasions, akin to Dole Holiday Treats.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. It can also be served as a sweet breakfast treat alongside coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving it with a side of fresh fruit or a light yogurt like Banana Yogurt for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Spicy Raisin Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature or reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds to restore its moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Raisin Cake contains roughly 654 calories, with 10g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2500mg per serving (109% 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 dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! You can replace raisins with chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or even a mix of your favorite dried fruits. Just ensure the total amount remains the same to maintain the cake's texture. This variation can offer a unique twist while keeping the delightful spice profile of the cake intact.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum, as it helps mimic the texture of traditional flour. Ensure that all other ingredients, like baking powder and sugar, are also gluten-free. The cake may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.
How can I make this cake more moist?
To increase the moisture in the cake, you can add an extra egg or incorporate a few tablespoons of yogurt or sour cream into the batter. Additionally, ensuring not to overmix the batter will help maintain the cake’s tenderness. These changes will enhance the overall texture and flavor, making it even more enjoyable.
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).