Buster Brown Cake is a nostalgic, spiced dessert originating from early 20th-century American baking traditions. Featuring a warm blend of cinnamon and cloves, this cake delivers deep, comforting flavors perfect for fall and winter. Sour milk (or buttermilk) keeps the crumb tender and moist, while raisins add optional bursts of sweetness and texture. It's simple to prepare, relying on basic pantry staples and classic “stir-and-bake” techniques. Ideal for gatherings, afternoon coffee, or as a holiday treat, this cake embodies the cozy, home-baked charm of vintage American kitchens.
Ingredients
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup sour milk (or buttermilk)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- ½ cup lard (or shortening/butter)
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cloves
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the lard and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and sour milk, mixing until fully combined.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves.
Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
Step 5: Add Raisins (Optional)
- Fold in raisins, if using.
Step 6: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar or frost if desired.
Tips
- Substitute buttermilk for sour milk if preferred.
- Replace lard with butter or vegetable shortening for a different flavor profile.
- Add chopped nuts along with raisins for added texture.
- Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar instead of frosting for a lighter finish.
- Bake in a loaf pan for a “tea cake” style presentation; increase baking time slightly.
- Add a simple vanilla or brown sugar glaze for extra sweetness.
- Omit raisins if you prefer a smooth spice cake.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips for a kid-friendly variation.
- Increase cinnamon and cloves slightly for a bolder spice flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 305kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 3gFat: 9.6gSaturated Fat: 3.8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.9gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.8gTrans Fat: 0.17gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 170mgFiber: 1.5gSugar: 32gVitamin A: 90IUCalcium: 45mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!