Grandma’s Tandy Kake

Grandma’s Tandy Kake, a beloved family recipe passed down through generations, has become a staple at John Morgan III’s gatherings in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. This delightful treat is adored by everyone, and John now makes it for every party he attends or hosts.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 eggs
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup 2% milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 3/4 cups creamy peanut butter
• 5 milk chocolate candy bars (1.55 ounces each), chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter

PREPARATION:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until thick and lemon-colored. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and mix well.
2. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, mixing until well combined.
3. Spread the batter into a greased 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool the cake for 15 minutes on a wire rack.
4. Spread the creamy peanut butter over the cooled cake. Allow the cake to cool completely.
5. In a double boiler or a metal bowl set over simmering water, melt the chopped milk chocolate candy bars and butter, stirring until smooth. Gently spread the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer.
6. Refrigerate the Tandy Kake for 30 minutes or until the chocolate layer is firm.

YIELD:

This recipe makes 24 servings of Grandma’s Tandy Kake.

PREP/TOTAL TIME:

Preparation time: 20 minutes Baking time: 20-25 minutes Chilling time: 30 minutes Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Ensure the eggs and sugar are beaten until thick and lemon-colored to achieve the desired texture in the cake.
• Use a greased baking pan that measures 15x10x1 inches for optimal results.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading the peanut butter to prevent melting.
• When melting the chocolate and butter, use a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water to ensure gentle and controlled heat.
• Refrigerate the Tandy Kake for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate layer is firm before serving.

TIPS:

• Tandy Kakes, also known as Kandy Kakes, were first introduced by the Tastykake Baking Company in the Philadelphia area in 1931 and have since become a beloved treat in the region.
• The peanut butter flavor is particularly popular and features a sponge cake topped with creamy peanut butter and covered in milk chocolate.
• Customize the recipe by using your favorite brand or type of milk chocolate candy bars.
• Cut the Tandy Kake into smaller squares or rectangles for bite-sized servings at parties or gatherings.
• Serve Grandma’s Tandy Kake as a delightful dessert or enjoy it as a sweet treat alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

In conclusion, Grandma’s Tandy Kake holds a special place in John Morgan III’s heart as a cherished family recipe. Originating from Lebanon, Pennsylvania, this delightful treat has become a favorite at their family gatherings, and John has carried on the tradition by making it for every party he attends or hosts.

To prepare Grandma’s Tandy Kake, a sponge cake is baked to perfection and then topped with a generous layer of creamy peanut butter. The cake is further enhanced by a smooth and rich chocolate coating. The combination of fluffy cake, creamy peanut butter, and decadent chocolate creates an irresistible treat that will leave everyone wanting more.

These Tandy Kakes, also known as Kandy Kakes, have a fascinating history, as they were first introduced by the Tastykake Baking Company in the Philadelphia area in 1931. The peanut butter flavor, featured in this recipe, remains a top seller and has become a beloved treat in the region.

Serve Grandma’s Tandy Kake as a delightful dessert or as a sweet indulgence alongside a warm beverage. The recipe can be easily customized by using your favorite brand or type of milk chocolate candy bars.

With its nostalgic charm and irresistible flavors, Grandma’s Tandy Kake is sure to bring joy and satisfaction to all who have the pleasure of enjoying it.