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–+ servings
Leda's Secret Cake
Leda’s Secret Cake is a warmly spiced loaf cake rich with raisins and applesauce, blending old-fashioned charm with pantry staples. Its unique combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice creates a comforting aroma and flavor that evoke memories of autumn kitchens and community potlucks. Moist and subtly sweet, this cake is a perfect balance of fruit and spice, baked in a loaf or tube pan until golden brown. With no frosting needed, it's a humble but delicious treat for tea time, brunch, or dessert.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 345 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup shortening (or unsalted butter)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup seedless raisins (or chopped dates)
  • 1 cup applesauce (sweetened for table use)
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ground allspice
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp hot water
  • 1 tsp baking soda

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream Base

  • Blend shortening, sugar, and egg together in one operation until smooth.
  • Add raisins and applesauce. Mix well.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift flour with nutmeg, allspice, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

  • Add flour mixture to the creamed mixture in several portions, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Add Soda Solution

  • Before adding the final portion of flour, stir baking soda into the hot water to dissolve.
  • Add this soda-water mixture to the batter.

Step 5: Final Mixing and Baking

  • Beat the batter well.
  • Pour into a greased loaf or tube pan.
  • Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips

  • Use sweetened applesauce for table use, as noted on the card, for best flavor.
  • Dates may be substituted fully or partially with additional raisins if preferred.
  • Lightly flour the greased loaf or tube pan for easier release.
  • This cake improves in flavor after resting overnight.
  • Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
  • Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans for texture if desired.
  • Store tightly wrapped at room temperature up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 345kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 4.5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4.8gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 240mgFiber: 2.5gSugar: 32gVitamin A: 140IUVitamin C: 2.1mgCalcium: 48mgIron: 1.6mg
Keyword applesauce cake, Dates, family recipe, old-fashioned dessert, Raisins, spice cake, vintage baking, warm spices
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