Maritime War Cake

This eggless cake was developed by resourceful cooks during the war when eggs, butter, and milk were rationed. It is a traditional Christmas cake here on the East Coast of Canada. Served with a nice big hunk of Cheddar cheese and a hot cup of tea, it is a real holiday treat!

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 1 hr 10 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
• Calories: 221 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup white sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅔ cup shortening
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cups raisins
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup light molasses

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease and flour a round tube pan or two loaf pans.

Step 2

Bring water, raisins, molasses, sugar, and shortening to a boil in a saucepan; reduce heat to low and simmer until raisins are plump, about 5 minutes. Allow to cool.

Step 3

Whisk flour, baking soda, and cinnamon together in a bowl. Stir flour mixture into raisin mixture until well combined; pour into prepared baking pan.

Step 4

Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean, about 1 hour.