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What is a Mary Jane cake?

The Mary Jane cake is a lesser-known vintage dessert that brings nostalgia and simplicity to your baking routine. Known for its basic ingredients and subtle flavors, this cake evokes memories of classic, home-baked goods often shared during family gatherings or cozy tea times. In this article, we will dive deep into what makes the Mary Jane cake unique, its origins, and a step-by-step recipe to help you make this classic dessert at home.

  • Total Time: 7 minute
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup buttermilk

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
  • Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Cream the butter and sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
  • Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
  • Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

The Mary Jane cake is a wonderful nod to simpler times, with its warm spices and straightforward ingredients. It’s an easy recipe that you can customize with various add-ins or modern twists. Whether you prefer the classic version or want to experiment with flavors, this cake is perfect for casual gatherings or as a nostalgic dessert. For more vintage-inspired desserts, try baking these Earl Grey Cookies or the Carrot Cake Bars, which both offer delightful takes on old-fashioned recipes.

  • Author: Lyli Mildiva
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Keywords: Mary Jane cake, vintage cake recipe, spice cake, simple cake recipe, cinnamon cake, nostalgic dessert, easy cake recipe, classic dessert, cozy cake recipe