Tinker Cake
A moist, chocolatey cake with hints of cinnamon, perfect for family gatherings or casual celebrations, offering rich flavors and a tender crumb. Easy to make and delightful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the sugar, flour, soda, and cinnamon and set aside.
- Put water, margarine, oil, and cocoa in a saucepan and mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Pour the hot mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla.
- Gradually add the buttermilk mixture to the chocolate mixture, stirring until combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Frost the cake while warm, then cool and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. You can substitute unsweetened applesauce for half the oil to reduce fat. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter. If you want a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for extra texture. This cake is perfect for those who enjoy American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tinker Cake warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. It pairs beautifully with Joseph'S Sugar Cookies for a sweet treat platter. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to enhance its appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Tinker Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about five minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tinker Cake contains roughly 368 calories, with 6g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk for buttermilk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and still yield a moist cake.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
To check if the Tinker Cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary; it typically takes 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Can I freeze Tinker Cake?
Absolutely! Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
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).