Sure, let’s delve into the delightful world of Boiled Raisin Cake! π° This classic recipe, handed down through generations, is a testament to the simple pleasures of homemade baking. With a prep time of just 30 minutes and a total time of 55 minutes, it’s a quick and easy treat to whip up whenever the craving strikes. Whether you’re serving it for dessert, enjoying it with a cup of tea, or simply indulging in a slice whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up, this Boiled Raisin Cake is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raisins π
- 2 cups water π§
- 1 cup sugar π₯
- 1/2 cup shortening π§
- 1 pinch of salt π§
- 1 egg π₯
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract πΏ
- 1 teaspoon baking soda π₯
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon π
- 2 cups all-purpose flour πΎ
Instructions:
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Boil the Raisins: Start by placing 1 cup of raisins in a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then let it simmer until the liquid reduces to 1 cup. This process allows the raisins to plump up and infuse the water with their sweet flavor, creating a rich base for the cake.
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Prepare the Raisin Mixture: Once the water has reduced, drain the raisins, reserving the 1 cup of flavored water. To this cup of water, add 1 teaspoon of baking soda, stirring until it’s fully dissolved. This step adds a subtle lift to the cake and helps it achieve a light, airy texture.
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Mix the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar, shortening, salt, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and the reserved raisin water with baking soda. Mix everything together until well incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy batter. The aroma of the vanilla and cinnamon will tantalize your senses, promising a flavorful cake that’s bursting with warmth and sweetness.
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Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense and tough cake. The flour should be fully incorporated, leaving you with a thick, but still pourable batter.
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease and flour a cake pan, ensuring that it’s well coated to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Enjoy: Once the cake is baked to golden perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. As the cake cools, it will set into a moist and tender crumb, ready to be sliced and savored.
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Serve and Share: Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge, this Boiled Raisin Cake is best enjoyed with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. Slice it into generous portions and serve it alongside your favorite hot beverage for a cozy and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
So there you have it β a timeless recipe for Boiled Raisin Cake that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. With its simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and irresistible flavor, this cake is bound to bring joy to all who taste it. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the baking begin!
