I didn’t know when I first had it that War Cake originated during WW1. While there’s shortening in this recipe, it uses no butter, eggs, or milk. My mother-in-law first made it for me, and I LOVED it as at the time I wasn’t a fan of fruit cake (that has also since changed!). In fact, when we did Groom’s Cake for our wedding (a tradition to look up if you’re unfamiliar), we did War Cake instead of Fruit Cake.

It’s spicy and tasty and fantastic with a cup of tea. I don’t make it often, but I usually make one around Christmas time.