Walnut Raisin Spice Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A moist, flavorful spice cake packed with raisins and walnuts, perfect for autumn gatherings or as a comforting dessert with a hint of cinnamon and lemon.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 c. seedless raisins
  • 1 1/2 c. walnuts
  • 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
  • 1 1/2 c. boiling water
  • 2 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 3/4 c. butter
  • 1 1/2 c. sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 1/2 tsp. lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
  2. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 35 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more complex flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the spice mix. If you prefer a different nut, chopped pecans can be a delicious substitute for walnuts. To enhance moisture, you can add a half cup of applesauce or substitute half of the butter with Greek yogurt. Ensure the raisins are plump by soaking them in warm water for a few minutes before mixing.

Serving Suggestions

This Walnut Raisin Spice Cake is wonderful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top or drizzle with a simple glaze. It also makes a delightful addition to holiday gatherings and potlucks.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. To reheat, thaw and warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Walnut Raisin Spice Cake contains roughly 526 calories, with 7g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 564mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).

526 kcal 26% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.5g 13% DV
Total Fat 18.4g 24% DV
Carbs 69.8g 25% DV
Fiber 4.2g 15% DV
Sugar 35.2g 70% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 563.7mg 25% DV
Potassium 444.9mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 5.7mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.5mcg
Vitamin C 11.8mg 13% DV
Calcium 123.4mg 9% DV
Iron 2.3mg 13% DV
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

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 nuts in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with chopped pecans or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different nuts may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cake, but they will still provide a delightful crunch.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, including baking soda, are gluten-free. This should maintain the cake’s texture and flavor while accommodating gluten sensitivities.

What can I serve with this cake?

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel can also enhance its richness, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

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).

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