Ah, raisin cake 🍇🍰—a cozy, old-fashioned treat with soft cake and bursts of sweet raisins.
What it is
- A moist, lightly spiced cake studded with raisins.
- Often flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes a splash of vanilla or orange zest.
- Can be baked as a loaf, round cake, or sheet cake.
Ingredients (classic version, serves 6–8)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup butter or oil
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup milk or orange juice (for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or round cake pan.
- Mix dry ingredients:
Flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg. - Cream wet ingredients:
Butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mix well. - Combine:
Add dry ingredients alternately with milk (or juice), mixing gently. Fold in raisins. - Bake:
50–60 minutes (loaf) or 30–35 minutes (round), until a toothpick comes out clean. - Cool & serve:
Let cool before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Plump raisins: Soak raisins in warm water, juice, or rum for 10–15 min before adding.
- Extra flavor: Add orange zest, chopped nuts, or a splash of brandy.
- Moist cake hack: Brush finished cake with a little warm syrup or jam.
- Spiced twist: Try adding ground cloves or ginger for a holiday vibe.
If you want, I can give a one-bowl, super-easy raisin cake recipe that’s perfect for beginners or weeknight baking.
Do you want me to do that?
