Indulge in the rich flavors of this Maritime War Cake, a traditional American recipe passed down through generations. This moist and spiced cake is easy to make and perfect for special occasions or simple gatherings. With a hint of nostalgia, this cake takes you back to the wartime era and is a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of home bakers. Enjoy a slice of history with this delightful Maritime War Cake.
Ingredients
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 cup raisins
- ½ cup butter
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp cloves
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, hot water, raisins, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir well until the butter melts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Interesting Facts
Maritime War Cake originated during World War II when ingredients like eggs and milk were scarce, so bakers relied on pantry staples like brown sugar, raisins, and spices.
This cake was often baked by families on the home front to send to soldiers overseas as a reminder of home.
The use of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves not only added flavor but also helped mask the absence of other ingredients.
The moist texture of the cake made it ideal for shipping long distances without drying out.