Mediterranean Classic Old-Fashioned War-Time Cake with Raisins and Spices
The classic war-time cake has a humble history rooted in simplicity and resilience. During times when eggs, butter, and milk were scarce, home cooks relied on pantry staples, dried fruit, and warm spices to create comforting desserts. This Mediterranean-inspired version stays true to that spirit while adding gentle flavors like olive oil, citrus zest, and aromatic spices common to Mediterranean kitchens. The result is a moist, fragrant cake that feels nostalgic yet refined. It is lightly sweet, deeply spiced, and perfect with tea or coffee. This cake keeps well, improves with time, and proves that simple ingredients can still create something memorable.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 to 45 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Ingredients
Fruit and Liquid Base
1 cup water
1 cup raisins
½ cup brown sugar or raw cane sugar
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
Dry Ingredients
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
Spices and Flavorings
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon orange or lemon zest
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line an 8-inch round or square baking pan.
In a medium saucepan, combine water, raisins, brown sugar, and olive oil.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until raisins plump and liquid slightly thickens.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes.
Stir in vanilla extract and citrus zest once slightly cooled.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Pour the warm raisin mixture into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently until just combined and a smooth batter forms.
Transfer batter to the prepared pan and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool before slicing.
Tips
Allow the raisin mixture to cool slightly before mixing to avoid over-activating the baking soda.
Use fresh spices for the best aroma and depth of flavor.
Do not overmix the batter or the cake may become dense.
Lining the pan helps with easy removal and clean slices.
For extra moisture, brush the warm cake lightly with orange juice.
Store covered at room temperature for up to three days.
This cake tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
Use dark raisins for richer flavor, or mix light and dark.
Slice with a serrated knife for clean edges.
Serve slightly warm for the softest texture.
Variations
Walnut Raisin Cake: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts for crunch.
Orange Spice Cake: Increase orange zest and add 2 tablespoons juice.
Honey War-Time Cake: Replace sugar with ½ cup honey.
Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour.
Date and Raisin Cake: Replace half the raisins with chopped dates.
Apple Spice Twist: Add ½ cup grated apple to the batter.
Cardamom Mediterranean Style: Add ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom.
Cocoa Spiced Cake: Add 1 tablespoon cocoa powder for depth.
Rum Raisin Cake: Soak raisins in warm water with rum extract.
Citrus Glaze Finish: Drizzle with a light lemon sugar glaze after baking.
Q&A
Why is it called war-time cake?
It was made during shortages using no eggs, butter, or milk.
Is this cake vegan?
Yes, it contains no animal products.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap well and freeze for up to two months.
What oil works best?
Extra virgin olive oil gives a subtle Mediterranean flavor.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, the raisins provide natural sweetness.
Why boil the raisins?
It softens them and infuses the liquid with flavor.
Can I use other dried fruits?
Yes, currants, figs, or chopped apricots work well.
How do I know it’s fully baked?
A toothpick should come out clean from the center.
Does it need frosting?
No, it is traditionally served plain.
What pairs well with this cake?
Tea, coffee, or lightly sweetened yogurt.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Slice)
Calories: 230
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 18g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Classic Old-Fashioned War-Time Cake with Raisins and Spices is a reminder that comfort baking does not need luxury ingredients. Its soft crumb, warming spices, and gentle sweetness make it timeless and practical. Olive oil and citrus add a Mediterranean character that feels fresh while respecting tradition. This cake is easy to prepare, stores beautifully, and adapts well to seasonal variations. Whether served as a simple dessert or an afternoon treat, it offers warmth, history, and quiet satisfaction in every slice.