Old-Fashioned War-Time Cake is a humble, comforting dessert that dates back to times when ingredients were scarce, yet creativity was abundant. Made without eggs, butter, or milk, this cake proves that simplicity can still deliver incredible flavor. Warm spices, tender crumbs, and bursts of sweet raisins make this cake a timeless classic—perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
1 cup water
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup raisins
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or shortening)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour an 8-inch square pan or round cake pan.
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, brown sugar, raisins, oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step plumps the raisins and blends the spices beautifully.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly (about 10 minutes).
Stir in the baking soda—the mixture will foam slightly.
Gradually add the flour, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool before slicing. Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a simple glaze if desired.
Serving Tip
This cake tastes even better the next day as the spices deepen in flavor.
Enjoy it plain, toasted, or with a light spread of jam.