Raisin Cake. Mrs. Frank Arrowsmith. Recipe

Raisin Cake Recipe by Mrs. Frank Arrowsmith

History of the Recipe:
Raisin cake has a long history and is a classic recipe that has been enjoyed by generations. The combination of sweet, plump raisins and warm spices creates a delightful and comforting dessert. The origins of this particular recipe are attributed to Mrs. Frank Arrowsmith, who perfected it and passed it down through her family. Over the years, it has become a beloved and cherished recipe that brings joy to many households during special occasions and family gatherings.

Fun Facts about Raisin Cake:
- Raisins have been used in baking for centuries, dating back to ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire. They were highly valued for their sweetness and were often used as a natural sweetener in desserts.
- Raisin cake is often served during festive holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, as it pairs perfectly with the warm flavors of the season.
- In some cultures, raisin cake is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. It is believed that eating a slice of raisin cake at the beginning of the year brings abundance and happiness for the rest of the year.
- The process of stoning raisins involves removing the seeds or pits from the raisins. This ensures a smoother texture and enhances the overall eating experience.

Recipe for Raisin Cake:

Ingredients:
- 2 cups of brown sugar
- 1 scant cup of butter
- 1 cup of sweet milk
- 4 eggs
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 3 cups of flour
- 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon and cloves
- 1 pound of raisins

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a small bowl, pour boiling water over the raisins and let them stand for a few minutes. Drain the water and set the raisins aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and cloves.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the sweet milk. Stir until well combined.
7. Fold in the cooled raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
10. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, you can frost the cakes with your favorite cream cheese frosting or enjoy them as is.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy the flavors of raisin cake, you might also like:
- Carrot Cake: This moist cake is packed with grated carrots, raisins, and a blend of warm spices. It is commonly frosted with cream cheese frosting and is a perfect choice for any occasion.
- Fruitcake: A rich and dense cake filled with a variety of dried fruits, including raisins, currants, and candied fruits. Often enjoyed during the holiday season, it is usually soaked in alcohol, giving it a distinct flavor.
- Apple Spice Cake: This cake combines the sweetness of apples and the warmth of spices, similar to raisin cake. It is often topped with a caramel glaze or served with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat.

Remember, baking is an art, and you can always experiment by adding your own twist to the recipe. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious homemade raisin cake!