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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
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Ingredient Amount
Powdered sugar 2 cups
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Water 2/3 tbsp
How to Make Homemade Sailor Jacks
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.
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