World War #2 Cake
A nostalgic, moist spiced cake with rich raisins and warming spices, perfect for sharing during cozy gatherings or as a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, mix brown sugar, 1 1/2 cups water, shortening, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes.
- Set aside to cool.
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Dissolve salt and baking soda in 2 teaspoons of water.
- Add salt and soda mixture to the raisin and spice mixture.
- Blend in flour and baking powder.
- Turn batter into a lightly greased and floured 8-inch square pan.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you don't have dark brown sugar, light brown sugar works as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly less robust. Adding a handful of chopped nuts can also enhance the texture. Ensure to let the mixture cool completely before adding the baking soda to avoid any reaction and ensure a good rise.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light Vegetable Salad Ala Houston for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and place in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through, which will keep the cake moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of World War #2 Cake contains roughly 515 calories, with 1g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 575mg per serving (25% 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 fresh fruit instead of raisins?
Yes, you can substitute fresh fruits like diced apples or chopped dates for raisins. However, be mindful that fresh fruits may increase moisture, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly to maintain the cake's texture.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients together. Additionally, check that your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time. It actually tastes better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld. Just be sure to store it properly to retain moisture, and you can serve it at room temperature or warm it up 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).