When ingredients were scarce and rationing was a way of life, home cooks became culinary heroes, transforming limited resources into delicious meals that sustained families through challenging times. This World War I Ration Cake is a remarkable testament to human ingenuity, proving that delicious desserts can be created even without eggs, butter, or milk. Imagine biting into a slice of history - a cake that tells a story of resilience, resourcefulness, and the incredible adaptability of home bakers during one of the most challenging periods in modern history.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-inch square baking pan by greasing it thoroughly with a thin layer of oil or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and ground cinnamon to ensure even distribution and remove any lumps.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and slowly pour in the water, stirring continuously to create a smooth batter without any dry spots.
- Gently fold in the raisins and chopped nuts (if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice the cake into 8 equal servings. The cake can be served as-is or with a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Tips
- Sifting is crucial: Take extra time to sift your dry ingredients to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter that will result in a more tender cake.
- Raisin and nut variations: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits or nuts. Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or walnuts can add interesting flavor dimensions.
- Moisture matters: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Storage tip: This cake actually improves in flavor and moisture if stored in an airtight container for a day, making it perfect for making ahead.
- Serving suggestions: While delicious on its own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate this simple cake to a delightful dessert.
- Gluten-free adaptation: For those with dietary restrictions, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends to make this historic recipe more accessible.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
