This Brown Sugar Spice Cake is a rich, aromatic dessert bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. The inclusion of sour milk gives it a tender crumb, while the unique boiled topping adds a delightful crunch. This cake reflects classic American home baking, perfect for cozy gatherings or special treats. The topping’s texture and deep molasses-like sweetness set it apart from typical spice cakes, making it a beloved choice for fall and holiday tables.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup shortening
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 2 whole eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 2½ cups cake flour
- 1 tsp cloves
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup sour milk
For the Topping:
- 2 egg whites
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup broken nut meats (such as walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Cream shortening.
- Gradually add sugar, beating until smooth.
- Add well-beaten egg yolks and whole eggs to creamed mixture.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Sift together flour, soda, baking powder, spices, and salt.
Step 3: Mix Cake Batter
- Add dry ingredients alternately with sour milk to the creamed mixture. Mix well.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 8½ x 12½ inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes in a moderate oven.
Step 5: Make the Topping
- Beat egg whites until stiff but not dry.
- Add brown sugar and beat until thick and glossy.
- Spread topping over warm cake and sprinkle with nuts.
Tips
- Substitute buttermilk for sour milk if needed.
- Add raisins or chopped dates to the batter for extra richness.
- Swap walnuts with pecans or almonds based on preference.
- For deeper spice flavor, add ½ tsp nutmeg.
Nutrition
Calories: 631kcalCarbohydrates: 91gProtein: 8gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 224mgPotassium: 230mgFiber: 2gSugar: 65gVitamin A: 142IUVitamin C: 0.05mgCalcium: 131mgIron: 1mg
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