The Compromise Cake
A moist, fruity cake packed with raisins, dates, and pecans, complemented by warm spices and cocoa, perfect for dessert or teatime gatherings with a comforting flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups applesauce ⓘ
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda ⓘ
- 1 cup raisins ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped dates ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped pecans ⓘ
- 1/2 cup shortening ⓘ
- 1 1/3 cups sugar ⓘ
- 2 eggs ⓘ
- 2 cups sifted cake flour ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ⓘ
Instructions
- Grease the bottom of a 10-inch tube pan and line it with wax paper.
- Grease and flour the lining and the pan; set aside.
- Combine applesauce and baking soda; set aside.
- Combine raisins, chopped dates, and chopped pecans; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add sifted cake flour, cocoa, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the applesauce mixture and the fruit and nut mixture.
- Pour batter into the prepared tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using applesauce without added sugar. You can substitute the chopped pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. If you're looking for a sweeter cake, increase the sugar by 1/4 cup. Ensure that the cake flour is sifted properly for the best results. This recipe can also be adapted to create a similar flavor profile found in Misty'S Favorite Carrot Cake.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream on top. For a more indulgent dessert, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with Tropical Torte Cookies for a sweet treat platter or can be enjoyed with a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Compromise Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice a piece and microwave it for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a different texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Compromise Cake contains roughly 1204 calories, with 19g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), iron (63% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1016mg 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 make this cake vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by replacing the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). Additionally, use a plant-based shortening instead of traditional shortening, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make the Compromise Cake gluten-free, substitute the cake flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, including baking soda, are certified gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.
What can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of orange zest or lemon zest to the batter. Additionally, incorporating chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries can provide a delightful twist. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom.
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).