An interesting advertising recipe. I’m not sure the precise date, but I can tell you that the label depicted in the ad was used between 1912 and the 1940s. (I’m also not sure if “New Crisco!” means this is from the introduction of the product, or a subsequent reformulation from its original crystalized cottonseed oil formula. By the way: CRYStalized COttonseed. Thus, Crisco.)
From a box sold in Canby, Oregon.
Date Spice Cake
Moist and Fruity–
Men will love it!
1/3 cup Crisco
1 cup sugar
2 eggs (save 1 white for icing)
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup pitted dates, cut fine
1 cup nutmeats, chopped
1 3/4 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon soda
1/4 teaspoon each of cloves and nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3/4 cup water
Blend Crisco, sugar, eggs and salt. (See what a stain-smooth mixture you get with New Crisco!) Stir in dates and nuts. Sift flour with baking powder, soda and spices. Add alternately with water to Crisco mixture. Pour in an 8-inch square “Criscoed” and floured pan. Bake in moderate oven (350 degrees F.) 1 hour. Remove from pan and cool.
Fluffy Orange Icing: Combine in top of double-boiler 1 egg white, 2 Tablespoons orange juice, 1 Tablespoon water, 3/4 cup sugar. Beat with rotary egg beater until icing stands in peaks. Stir in 1 tablespoon grated orange rind.
Frost top of cake and decorate with walnut halves.
All measurements level.