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–+ servings
Surprise Cake
This charmingly old-fashioned Surprise Cake is a delightful example of resourceful home baking, made unique by its unexpected ingredient, tomato soup! Popular during the Depression era, this cake’s origins lie in maximizing pantry staples, resulting in a moist, spiced cake that surprises everyone with its rich flavor and tender texture. Often compared to spice cake, the tomato soup adds depth without being detectable. This beloved recipe is simple, nostalgic, and perfect with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp shortening
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp cloves
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 10 ¾ oz tomato soup (1 can)
  • 1 cup raisins and chopped nuts

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream Base

  • Cream together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Mix Soup

  • Add the undiluted tomato soup to the creamed mixture and stir well.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and baking soda.

Step 4: Combine All

  • Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until well incorporated.
  • Stir in raisins and nuts.

Step 5: Bake

  • Pour into a greased loaf or cake pan.
  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Tips

  • Add 1 tsp vanilla for deeper flavor.
  • Substitute half the raisins with chopped dates for extra caramel sweetness.
  • Replace nuts with walnuts or pecans for crunch.
  • Add ½ cup shredded coconut for texture.
  • Use brown sugar instead of white for richer molasses notes.
  • A light powdered-sugar glaze works well if you want a sweeter finish.
  • Bake in muffin tins for individual cakes.
  • Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.
  • Serve with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.
  • Store wrapped tightly, the flavor improves after a day.

Nutrition

Calories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 49gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.4gSodium: 270mgPotassium: 190mgFiber: 2gSugar: 31gVitamin A: 320IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 1.6mg
Keyword comfort food, heirloom recipe, old-fashioned dessert, retro recipes, spiced cake, tomato soup cake, vintage baking
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