Spice Cake Recipe 🍰
Introduction
This delightful Spice Cake recipe hails from the esteemed Mrs. Selma Hiller, a culinary genius from the cherished cookbook “Heritage of Cooking: A Collection of Recipes from East Perry County, Missouri.” 📚 It’s a true testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region, boasting flavors that will transport you to cozy kitchens and warm gatherings. With a perfect blend of spices and a touch of sweetness, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. So, let’s dive into the intricacies of crafting this delectable treat! 🎂
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup shortening
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp clove
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup flour
- 2 cups sour milk
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 405.3
- Fat: 20.7g
- Saturated Fat: 8.2g
- Cholesterol: 21.3mg
- Sodium: 170.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 50.8g
- Fiber: 1.1g
- Sugar: 26.8g
- Protein: 4.2g
Instructions
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
-
Sift the Flour and Spices: Begin by sifting together the flour, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. This step ensures that your cake has a smooth texture and evenly distributed spices.
-
Cream the Shortening and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a tender crumb for your cake.
-
Alternate Adding Sour Milk and Flour: Gradually add the sour milk and flour mixture to the creamed shortening and sugar, alternating between the two. This technique helps to ensure that the batter is well mixed and prevents overmixing, which can lead to a tough cake.
-
Prepare the Pans: Grease and flour a 13 x 4-1/2″ loaf pan, ensuring that the cake will release easily after baking. Alternatively, you can use two regular loaf pans if preferred.
-
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan(s) in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Serve and Enjoy!: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve this delightful Spice Cake alongside a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat!
Recipe Notes
- Sour Milk Substitution: If you don’t have sour milk on hand, you can easily make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for a few minutes until it curdles slightly before using it in the recipe.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for longer storage.
Conclusion
With its warm spices and tender crumb, this Spice Cake is a true delight for the senses. Whether enjoyed as a dessert after a hearty meal or as a sweet indulgence with your morning coffee, it’s sure to bring joy to any occasion. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey to savor the flavors of East Perry County, Missouri, right in your own kitchen! 🌟