This Vintage Canadian Wartime Cake Has No Eggs, Butter, Or Milk - Tasting Table
Briefly

During World War II, Canadian families faced food shortages and strict rationing similar to other nations. They adapted by creating unique recipes like the "Eggless, Butterless, Milkless Cake," which used ingredients like hot water and shortening instead of traditional baking staples. Brown sugar or alternative sweeteners were often employed for flavoring, showcasing the resourcefulness of Canadians. The recipe embodies the spirit of creativity needed to navigate wartime constraints. Interestingly, the concept of the Canadian War Cake dates back further, appearing in a 1916 cookbook, indicating a long-standing tradition of adapting recipes during times of crisis.
In the book "How to Eat Well Though Rationed: Wartime Canning and Cooking Book," a curious-sounding recipe called the "Eggless, Butterless, Milkless Cake" can be found in the desserts section. This cake featured none of the essential baking staples, utilizing whatever ingredients were available to Canadians during wartime.
The Canadian War Cake, which gained prominence during World War II, actually predates this period, with the earliest mention found in a 1916 book entitled "Allied Cookery: British, French, Italian, Belgian, Russian." Families faced food shortages and strict rationing, leading to creative adaptations in baking and cooking.
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