Go Back

Old-Fashioned Pork Cake Recipe (1910-Inspired)

This historic 1910 recipe is a unique take on traditional fruitcake, using ground pork for richness and moisture.
The result is a dense, spiced cake filled with dried fruits and deep flavors, making it a conversation-starting treat for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Bread

Ingredients
  

  • ½ lb ground pork
  • cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • cup molasses
  • 1 ⅓ cups raisins
  • 1 ⅓ cups chopped dates
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour plus more if needed

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
  • In a saucepan or skillet, combine the ground pork with water and bring it to a boil. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, then remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Do not discard the cooking liquid.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  • Add in the eggs, molasses, raisins, and dates, stirring until the mixture is evenly incorporated.
  • Pour in the boiled pork along with its cooking liquid, then beat the mixture for about 2 to 3 minutes to ensure everything blends smoothly.
  • Gradually add the flour while mixing, forming a thick but pourable batter. If the consistency seems too thin, add up to an additional ½ cup of flour.
  • Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top for even baking.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 70 to 90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Keyword 1910 cake recipe, historic fruitcake, old recipes, old-fashioned spiced cake, pork dessert recipe, traditional baking recipes, vintage holiday dessert
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!