Why You’ll Love This War Cake Recipe
Whether you’re looking for a comforting dessert or a piece of history, you’ll love this War Cake recipe. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion.
I appreciate how it combines pantry staples, so I can whip it up even during busy times. The inviting aroma of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg fills my kitchen, reminding me of home.
Plus, it’s a great conversation starter, sharing its wartime origins with friends. I love that this cake not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also connects me to a rich culinary tradition.
Trust me, you’ll want to try it!
Ingredients of War Cake
When it comes to baking, having the right ingredients is essential, and this War Cake recipe is no exception. Each ingredient plays a significant role in creating that delightful, spiced flavor that makes this cake a beloved comfort food.
Plus, most of these ingredients are probably already in your pantry, which is always a win. So, if you’re ready to plunge into this culinary adventure, here’s what you’ll need to gather.
- 2 cups raisins, seeded
- 2 cups hot water
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup cold water
- 3 1/2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon clove
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
Now, let’s chat about those ingredients for a moment. The raisins are the star of the show, soaking up all that hot water to become plump and juicy, which is key to the cake’s moisture.
And while shortening is a bit old-school, it gives this cake a nice tender crumb—like a warm hug in dessert form. Feel free to swap in butter if that’s what you have on hand, but just know it might change the flavor slightly, and you might’ve to hug it out with the calories later.
The spices, oh the spices! They add warmth and depth, making each bite a nostalgic experience.
How to Make War Cake
Making War Cake is like taking a delightful trip back in time, where simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Let’s dive right into the process.
Start by cooking 2 cups of seeded raisins in 2 cups of hot water for about 20 minutes. This step is essential, as it plumps up those little gems, making them juicy and ready to shine in your cake.
Once they’re nice and soft, drain them and pour the hot mixture over 1/2 cup of shortening and 2 cups of white sugar in a large bowl. Stir it all together until combined, and then set it aside to cool. This might be the hardest part—waiting for it to cool overnight. But trust me, it’s worth it. The shortening will harden, creating that tender crumb we’re all dreaming of.
The next day, once your mixture has cooled, it’s time to bring everything together. Add in 1 cup of cold water, along with 3 1/2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and those delightful spices: 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg.
Feel free to let your inner baker shine here—mixing can be a bit of a workout, so channel your energy into it. You want to combine everything until it’s just mixed; overmixing will lead to a dense cake, and nobody wants that.
Once you’ve got a lovely batter, pour it into a well-greased and floured 9×13 pan.
Now, it’s time for the magic to happen. Pop the pan into a preheated oven at 350°F and let it bake for about 45 to 60 minutes. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time? Pure bliss.
To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, you’re golden. After a few minutes of cooling in the pan, flip it out and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
And there you have it—your very own War Cake, ready to be sliced and savored. Just remember, it’s not just a cake; it’s a slice of history, and you deserve to enjoy every last crumb.
War Cake Substitutions & Variations
While War Cake has a traditional recipe that many cherish, there’s plenty of room for creativity through substitutions and variations.
I love swapping out raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates to change the flavor profile. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour instead of white flour.
You could even replace shortening with applesauce for a lighter version. Adding nuts or shredded coconut can also elevate the texture.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices; try cardamom or ginger for a unique spin. Each variation offers a delightful new take on this classic recipe!
Additional Tips & Notes
Experimenting with substitutions and variations can be a fun way to personalize your War Cake, but there are a few additional tips that can help guarantee your baking experience is successful.
First, make sure your raisins are well-cooked; this enhances their flavor and moisture. I suggest greasing your pan generously to avoid sticking.
Also, check your cake a little early; everyone’s oven can vary. If you want a deeper flavor, let the cake sit overnight before slicing.
Finally, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a festive touch.
Happy baking! You’ll love this delicious treat!