Boiled Raisin Cake

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Intensity: Easy

A Boiled Raisin Cake is a classic, old-fashioned dessert that is moist, flavorful, and full of plump, juicy raisins. This cake is perfect for those who enjoy a simple, homestyle dessert that doesn’t require much prep time. The raisins are boiled in water with sugar and spices, infusing them with a rich flavor that permeates the entire cake.

What makes this cake unique is the boiling method, which helps to keep the cake moist and tender. You’ll love the warmth from the cinnamon and cloves, paired with the sweetness of the raisins. This cake is perfect for fall and winter, but it can be enjoyed any time of the year with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups raisins

• 2 cups water

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground cloves

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)

• 2 large eggs

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a tangy note)

• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Method:

Step 1: Boil the Raisins

1. Boil the Raisins
   In a medium saucepan, combine the raisins (1 ½ cups) and water (2 cups). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5-10 minutes, or until the raisins are soft and plump.

2. Add Spices and Baking Soda
   While the raisins are still hot, add the baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg (if using) to the saucepan. Stir well and let it cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

3. Cream Butter and Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter (½ cup) and brown sugar (1 cup) until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer or a good amount of elbow grease if mixing by hand.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
   Beat in the eggs (2 large) one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract (1 tsp) for flavor.

5. Add the Raisin Mixture
   Once the raisin mixture has cooled slightly, pour it into the butter-sugar-egg mixture. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

6. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour (2 cups) and salt (½ tsp). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make the cake dense.

7. Add Optional Ingredients
   If you’re using chopped walnuts or pecans (1 cup), fold them into the batter. You can also add lemon juice (1 tbsp) for a bit of tang to balance out the sweetness of the raisins and spices.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

8. Prepare the Baking Pan
   Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan or a loaf pan (9×5 inches) with butter or cooking spray. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

9. Pour the Batter into the Pan
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

10. Bake the Cake
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the cake should be golden brown, and the cake should feel firm to the touch.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

11. Cool the Cake
    Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help it set properly and make slicing easier.

12. Serve
    Once the cake is completely cool, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a nice touch or serve it as is. This cake is delicious on its own, or you can enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Tips for Perfect Boiled Raisin Cake:

• Raisin Substitutes: While raisins are the traditional choice for this cake, you can substitute them with sultanas (golden raisins) or even dried cranberries for a slightly different flavor.

• Spices: You can experiment with the spices used in the cake. Some people like to add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for extra depth of flavor.

• Storage: This cake stores well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

• Make-Ahead: This cake can be made ahead of time, as the flavors often improve after a day or two. It also freezes well if you want to keep it for longer. Just wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information (Per Slice, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 220 kcal

• Fat: 8g

• Saturated Fat: 4g

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Sugars: 20g

• Protein: 2g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sodium: 150mg

• Cholesterol: 40mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used. For more precise nutritional information, use a recipe calculator.

Final Thoughts:

This Boiled Raisin Cake is a cozy, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any time of the year. The combination of spices and soft, plump raisins makes for a deliciously moist cake that will transport you straight to your grandmother’s kitchen. It’s simple to make, and with a few pantry staples, you can have a homemade cake that will impress your family and friends.

Whether you serve it with tea, coffee, or just as an afternoon snack, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy!