Best 2 Depression Cake I Recipes

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Depression cake is a simple, yet flavorful cake that was popular during the Great Depression era in the United States. Made with pantry staples such as flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract, this cake was often baked to provide comfort and a sense of normalcy during challenging economic times. Its name, "Depression cake," reflects the hardships faced by many families during that period. This article offers two variations of depression cake recipes – one with the classic chocolate flavor and another with a unique lemon twist. Both recipes are easy to follow and require minimal ingredients, making them accessible to home bakers of all skill levels. With their rich chocolate or bright lemon flavors, these depression cakes are sure to bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminiscent of a time when resilience and resourcefulness prevailed.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

DEPRESSION CAKE I



Depression Cake I image

This was my mother's, it has sugar, but no eggs, no butter and no milk. It's from the Depression-era.

Provided by Lynn-Pgh

Categories     Desserts     Cakes     Spice Cake Recipes

Yield 24

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 cup shortening
2 cups water
2 cups raisins
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground allspice
½ teaspoon ground cloves
2 cups white sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda

Steps:

  • In a saucepan combine the shortening, water, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes. Remove form heat and let stand until cool.
  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease one 9x13 inch baking pan.
  • Stir the flour and baking soda into the cooled raisin mixture and mix until just combined. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
  • Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 234.3 calories, Carbohydrate 38.4 g, Fat 8.8 g, Fiber 1 g, Protein 2 g, SaturatedFat 2.2 g, Sodium 54.9 mg, Sugar 23.9 g

GRANDMA'S DEPRESSION CAKE



Grandma's Depression Cake image

This is an eggless, milkless, butterless cake. " A delicious spiced cake that's easy on the budget". I found this recipe in the "Guideposts" magazine (August 2009 issue). The recipe was part of a wonderful article with the same title written by Rosemary Marbach.

Provided by nuts about music

Categories     Dessert

Time 1h25m

Yield 1 cake, 10-12 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
1 1/2 cups water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 cups dark raisins
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons water
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder

Steps:

  • Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees.
  • Combine sugar, water, vegetable oil, raisins, and spices in a saucepan, and bring to a boil. Boil for 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Take pan off heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
  • Dissolve baking soda and salt in 2 teaspoons of water and add to raisin mixture (it will foam).
  • Blend in the flour and baking powder. Mix well.
  • Pour the batter into a greased 9 inch square pan and bake for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick unserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Tips:

  • Use simple ingredients: Depression cake is a humble cake made with basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. This makes it an economical and accessible option for those on a tight budget.
  • Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough, dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, then stop.
  • Use a bundt pan for a classic look: A bundt pan creates a beautiful, fluted cake that is perfect for special occasions. If you don't have a bundt pan, you can use a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  • Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze: A dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to the cake. You can also serve it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or ice cream.

Conclusion:

Depression cake is a simple, yet delicious cake that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a reminder of the resilience and creativity of the American people during the Great Depression. Whether you are looking for a nostalgic treat or a budget-friendly dessert, depression cake is sure to please.

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