Mix-Easy Ribbon Cake
Description
This vintage-style ribbon cake is a delightful treat that combines tender vanilla cake with rich, spiced molasses layers. The contrast between the light vanilla batter and the dark, aromatic spice batter creates a beautiful visual effect and complex flavor profile. Sandwiched between the layers is a warm, cooked raisin filling that adds chewy texture and natural sweetness. The cake is finished with a bright, tangy lemon icing that cuts through the richness, balancing the dessert perfectly. Ideal for afternoon tea, family gatherings, or as a nostalgic showstopper for birthdays, this cake brings home-style comfort to your table.Directions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two 8-inch round layer pans and line the bottoms with waxed paper.
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In a large bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 1/4 cups sugar.
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Add the shortening to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined.
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In a separate small bowl, combine the vanilla, eggs, and 1/2 cup of milk. Add this mixture to the flour mixture.
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Mix until the flour is just dampened, then beat by hand or on medium speed for 1 minute, scraping the bowl frequently.
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Add the remaining 1/4 cup milk, blend, and beat for 2 minutes longer until smooth.
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Pour half of the batter into one prepared layer pan. Set aside.
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To the remaining batter, add the molasses, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Mix just enough to blend, creating a marbled effect. Pour into the second prepared pan.
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Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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While cakes bake, prepare the filling: In a small saucepan, combine cornstarch, 1/3 cup sugar, salt, chopped raisins, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon lemon rind, and 2/3 cup water.
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Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes clear.
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Stir in 1 teaspoon butter. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
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Prepare the icing: In a small bowl, cream 1/2 teaspoon lemon rind with 1 tablespoon butter or margarine.
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Add 1 cup sifted confectioner's sugar, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon water. Beat until smooth and of spreading consistency.
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Allow cake layers to cool completely in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
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Spread the cooled raisin filling evenly over the top of one cake layer.
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Place the second cake layer on top. Spread the lemon icing over the top of the cake.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4 cups
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 313kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.8 gg16%
- Saturated Fat 3.2 gg16%
- Cholesterol 30 mgmg10%
- Sodium 125 mgmg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 54 gg18%
- Dietary Fiber 0.6 gg3%
- Sugars 23.5 gg
- Protein 3 gg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.