Lady Baltimore Cake Recipe

Lady Baltimore Cake is a classic American dessert that dates back to the late 19th century. It is believed to have been created in Charleston, South Carolina, by a local baker named Mrs. Prudence F. Bennehan. This elegant cake has since become a beloved traditional treat, often enjoyed during special occasions such as weddings and tea parties.

The Lady Baltimore Cake is known for its light and fluffy texture, delicate flavors, and beautiful presentation. It consists of three layers of moist and tender cake, filled with a sweet and fruity mixture of dried fruits, nuts, and a hint of liqueur. The cake is then frosted with a luscious boiled frosting or fluffy meringue, creating a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table.

To make the perfect Lady Baltimore Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup of butter, softened
- 2 cups of sugar
- 3-1/2 cups of flour
- 1 cup of sweet milk
- Whites of 6 eggs
- 2 level teaspoonfuls of baking powder sifted with the flour
- 1 teaspoonful of rosewater

For the filling and frosting:
- 1 cup of dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, candied cherries, and chopped figs)
- 1 cup of chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
- 1/2 cup of fruity liqueur (such as cherry or apricot brandy)
- Boiled frosting or meringue for frosting the cake

Now, let's get started with the recipe!

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Layers
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sweet milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
5. Stir in the rosewater.
6. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
7. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter.
8. Divide the batter equally into three greased and floured cake pans.
9. Bake the cake layers in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Remove the cake layers from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Making the Filling
1. In a small saucepan, combine the dried fruits, chopped nuts, and fruity liqueur.
2. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes thick and syrupy.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake
1. Place one cooled cake layer onto a serving plate or cake stand.
2. Spread a generous amount of the fruit and nut filling over the first layer.
3. Repeat the process with the second layer.
4. Finally, top with the third cake layer.

Step 4: Frosting the Cake
1. Choose either a boiled frosting or meringue to frost your Lady Baltimore Cake.
2. If using boiled frosting, spread it evenly over the sides and top of the cake. You can also use a piping bag to create decorative designs.
3. If using meringue, cover the sides and top of the cake, creating swirls and peaks with a spatula.
4. Optionally, you can decorate the cake with additional dried fruits, nuts, or edible flowers.

Congratulations! Your homemade Lady Baltimore Cake is now ready to be enjoyed. Slice into it and savor the delightful combination of tender cake, fruity filling, and fluffy frosting. Whether served at a fancy gathering or enjoyed as an afternoon treat, this classic cake is sure to impress.

Fun Fact: The origins of the Lady Baltimore Cake can be traced back to a popular novel of the same name, written by Owen Wister in 1906. In the book, there is a scene in which one of the characters describes a delicious cake called "Lady Baltimore." This sparked the interest of readers, leading to the creation and popularity of this delightful dessert.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
1. Smith Island Cake: Another Southern classic, Smith Island Cake, is similar to Lady Baltimore Cake in terms of layering and decoration. This cake originated in Smith Island, Maryland and consists of multiple thin layers of cake with various flavors, typically frosted with chocolate or cooked icing.

2. Dobos Torte: Dobos Torte is a Hungarian dessert that also features multiple layers of cake, usually five to eight, sandwiched with a rich chocolate buttercream and topped with a caramel layer. Like the Lady Baltimore Cake, Dobos Torte is known for its stunning appearance and elegant flavors.

3. Prinzregententorte: Prinzregententorte, or Prince Regent Cake, is a German specialty that features eight layers of sponge cake filled with alternating layers of chocolate buttercream and apricot jam. This decadent cake is then coated in a smooth chocolate glaze, making it a true indulgence.

Each of these cake recipes carries its own unique history and set of flavors, but they all share a common thread of layering and exquisite presentation. Whether you choose to try Lady Baltimore Cake or one of its counterparts, you will surely enjoy the delightful experience of savoring a perfectly crafted layer cake.