Bride's Cake Recipe

History of Bride's Cake

The history of Bride's Cake stretches back several centuries and holds a significant place in wedding traditions. The origin of this delightful confection is believed to date back to ancient Rome, where it was a common tradition for guests to bring small, wheat-based cakes to weddings as symbols of good fortune and fertility. Over time, this tradition evolved into a larger, more elaborate cake known as the Bride's Cake.

In the 19th century, the Bride's Cake gained popularity in America, particularly in the Southern states. It became a staple at weddings, symbolizing prosperity and the sweetness of married life. These cakes were often made with simple, but rich, ingredients and were adorned with intricate icing decorations.

Fun Facts about Bride's Cake

1. In the Victorian era, it was customary to hide a small glass ring inside the Bride's Cake. The single woman who found the ring in her slice was believed to be the next to get married.

2. The traditional white icing on the Bride's Cake became popular in the early 20th century when Queen Victoria wed Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Her choice of a white cake, adorned with white icing, sparked a trend that continues to this day.

3. In some cultures, the Bride's Cake is baked with specific items symbolizing different meanings. For example, in Greece, a coin is baked into the cake, representing good luck and prosperity. In Denmark, the Bride's Cake may contain a bottle of wine or liquor, symbolizing a fruitful and joyous life together.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for a classic Bride's Cake:

Bride's Cake Recipe

Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1-3/4 cups flour
- 3 teaspoons Dr. Price's Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup milk

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature of 350°F (175°C). Grease a cake pan and set it aside.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream the shortening until it becomes smooth and creamy.

3. Gradually add the sugar to the creamed shortening and mix well until the mixture is fluffy.

4. Separate the egg yolks from the whites. Add the yolks to the creamed mixture and beat well until fully incorporated.

5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, Dr. Price's Baking Powder, and cinnamon. This will ensure a smooth and evenly mixed dry ingredient mixture.

6. Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and the milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix well after each addition.

7. In another mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.

8. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix and deflate the egg whites.

9. Pour the batter into the greased cake pan, spreading it evenly.

10. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

11. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

12. While the cake is cooling, you can prepare the boiled icing to cover it. Refer to page 16 of your recipe book for the specific boiled icing recipe.

13. Once the cake is completely cooled, cover it with the prepared boiled icing, ensuring an even and smooth coating.

14. Decorate the cake as desired, perhaps with delicate icing flowers, edible pearls, or any other embellishments that suit your taste.

And there you have it! A homemade Bride's Cake ready to be enjoyed on a special occasion. This classic recipe is sure to bring a touch of tradition and sweetness to any wedding or celebration.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

1. Groom's Cake - As a counterpart to the Bride's Cake, the Groom's Cake is another traditional wedding dessert. While the Bride's Cake is typically a white or light-colored cake, the Groom's Cake offers a contrasting flavor and design. It often features chocolate, nuts, or richer flavors that appeal to the groom's taste.

2. Fruitcake - Fruitcake is another popular cake often served at weddings. It is typically made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices soaked in alcohol. Fruitcakes are known for their long shelf life, making them perfect for preserving the memories of a wedding day.

3. Almond Wedding Cake - Almond Wedding Cake is a more modern take on the traditional Bride's Cake. It is characterized by the addition of almond extract or almond flour, which imparts a delightful nutty flavor to the cake. This variant adds a unique twist to the classic wedding dessert.

In conclusion, the Bride's Cake has a rich history and is deeply intertwined with wedding traditions. From ancient Rome to modern-day celebrations, this cake has symbolized prosperity, good fortune, and the sweetness of married life. Whether enjoyed in its classic form or with variations, the Bride's Cake continues to be a beloved centerpiece of joyous occasions.