Homemade Sailor Jack Treats
These Homemade Sailor Jacks are a nostalgic, spice-filled treat that sit somewhere between a muffin and a dense spice cake. With a warm, aromatic blend of spices—including a subtle kick from white pepper—and a rich molasses base, they’re irresistibly comforting and full of character.
Homemade Sailor Jacks
Ingredients
For the Cakes
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 ½ tsp |
| Baking soda | ½ tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Cocoa powder | ⅓ cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 ½ tbsp |
| Cloves | 1 tsp |
| Nutmeg | ½ tsp |
| Allspice | 2 tsp |
| Ginger | 1 tsp |
| White pepper | ½ tsp |
| Unsalted butter, softened | ½ cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 ¼ cups |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Buttermilk | 2/3 cup |
| Molasses | ½ cup |
| Hot water | 1 cup |
| Raisins | 1 cup |
For the Icing
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Water | 2/3 tbsp |
How to Make Homemade Sailor Jacks
Step 1: Prep & Sift
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two muffin tins thoroughly.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all the spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, ginger, and white pepper).
Step 2: Cream the Base
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in the molasses and buttermilk until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Stir in hot water and raisins. The batter will be thinner than a standard muffin batter—this is normal for Sailor Jacks.
Step 4: Bake
- Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tins, filling each a little over halfway.
- Bake for 20–24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Ice & Serve
- While the cakes are baking, mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and water until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over warm muffins, or dip the tops for a thicker glaze.
These Sailor Jacks are best enjoyed fresh and warm, with their rich spice aroma and sweet molasses flavor bringing a cozy, nostalgic touch to any snack time.
