Molasses Cake is a rich, warmly spiced dessert that harks back to early American and colonial kitchens, where molasses was a staple sweetener. This old-fashioned cake is dense and moist, flavored with the deep sweetness of molasses and lightly spiced. Often served during colder months, it's a comforting treat that pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. This version comes from a handwritten heirloom recipe notebook, preserving the rustic charm and history of generations past.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups sugar
- ½ cup molasses
- 4 tbsp shortening (or butter)
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup sour milk (or buttermilk)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 3 cups flour (enough to make a stiff batter)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Sugar and Molasses
- In a large bowl, mix together the sugar and molasses.
- Add the shortening and cream together until smooth.
Step 2: Mix in Milk and Leavening
- Dissolve the baking soda in the sour milk.
- Stir this mixture into the sugar and molasses mixture.
- Add salt, mixing well.
Step 3: Add Flour
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time.
- Stir until a stiff batter forms.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour batter into a greased cake pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips
- Substitute buttermilk for sour milk for extra tenderness.
- Add ½ tsp ground cloves or nutmeg for deeper spice flavor.
- Replace molasses with dark corn syrup for a milder taste.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Can also be made into cupcakes (bake 20–25 min).
Nutrition
Calories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 1gSugar: 27gVitamin A: 180IUCalcium: 65mgIron: 1.6mg
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