Handwritten recipe for Shell Bark Cake
by: salvagedrecipes

Shell Bark Nut Cake

Shell Bark Cake
Shell Bark Cake is a classic American-style nut cake, likely named after the rich, nutty flavor reminiscent of hickory or “shellbark” nuts (a type of hickory). This version blends Crisco, sugar, and separated eggs into a soft batter, folded with chopped nuts and baked to golden perfection. With its tender crumb and subtle crunch, it makes a comforting treat perfect for coffee breaks or holiday gatherings. Traditionally baked in a loaf or square pan, it's versatile enough to adapt for muffins or layers.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 294 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup Crisco (or shortening)
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 3 eggs (separated)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 cup nuts (chopped, e.g., walnuts or pecans)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream Base

  • Cream Crisco, sugar, and egg yolks together until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Sift & Combine Dry Ingredients

  • Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3: Add Dry & Wet Ingredients

  • Add sifted dry ingredients alternately with milk into the creamed mixture, mixing until smooth.

Step 4: Add Nuts

  • Fold in chopped nuts.

Step 5: Beat Egg Whites

  • In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.

Step 6: Fold & Bake

  • Gently fold egg whites into the batter. Pour into a greased loaf or square cake pan.

Step 7: Bake

  • Bake in a moderate oven (350°F) for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Tips

  • Toast the chopped nut meats before folding in for deeper flavor
  • Bake in a loaf pan for slicing or a shallow pan for quicker cooling
  • Serve plain or dust lightly with powdered sugar
  • Pairs well with coffee or tea as an afternoon cake
  • Substitute half the nuts with chopped dates for added sweetness
  • Let rest overnight for best texture and flavor
  • Line pan with parchment to prevent sticking
  • Slice thin—this is a rich cake
  • Freezes well when tightly wrapped

Nutrition

Calories: 294kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 6gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 42mgSodium: 178mgPotassium: 128mgFiber: 2gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 78IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 109mgIron: 2mg
Keyword comfort food, from scratch, heritage baking, loaf cake, nut cake, vintage cake
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