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A moist slice of syrup cake served on a white plate with whipped cream, next to a hot mug of coffee on a cozy wooden table

Old Fashioned Cake Made with Sugar Syrup

This rich, moist old fashioned cake is made with dark cane sugar syrup and warm spices—bringing traditional Southern flavor to your table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine Southern American
Servings 12 people
Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients
  

1½ cups granulated sugar

1¼ cups cane syrup (e.g., Steen’s Pure Cane Syrup)

1¼ cups vegetable oil

3 large eggs

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp nutmeg

1 cup boiling water

2 tsp baking soda

2¾ cups all-purpose flour

Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Optional: whipped cream for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  • In a large bowl, combine sugar, cane syrup, oil, eggs, cinnamon, and nutmeg with a hand mixer.
  • Stir baking soda into boiling water.
  • Slowly add water mixture into batter and mix until smooth.
  • Gradually fold in flour and continue mixing until well combined.
  • Pour into baking pan and bake for 45–50 minutes.
  • Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

Notes

  • Cake center may dip slightly—this is normal for syrup-based cakes.
  • Try using sorghum or molasses if cane syrup isn’t available.
  • Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
  • Can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Keyword cane syrup cake, old fashioned cake, old fashioned cake made with sugar syrup, Southern dessert, sugar syrup cake, vintage cake recipe