I’m Hungry: War Cake

In honour of Remembrance Day, here’s a timeless recipe that was popular during times of war when expensive foods like milk and eggs weren’t readily available.   There are lots of variations depending on the ingredients that folks would have had on hand, but this one is straight out of my grandmother’s recipe collection.  She used to serve it plain but I’m sure it would be great with a frosting or glaze over the top.

Nan’s War Cake

Combine the following in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Continue boiling for 5 minutes. Set aside and cool completely.

2 cups brown sugar

2 cups hot water

2 tsp butter

¾ cup of raisins     

2 tsp in total of spice – mix of any cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg or allspice

½ tsp salt

Then, in a small bowl stir together the following until dissolved, then add to raisin mixture.

1 tsp baking soda

2 tsp hot water     

Mix in 3 cups of flour to finish.  Add to greased bunt or tube pan.  Bake in pre-heated 350 degree oven for 1 hour.