Lady Baltimore Cake

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the Lady Baltimore Cake, a special treat that Cleo Gonske, from Redding, California, created for her father’s birthday and has become his favorite ever since. This unique cake boasts complex flavors, thanks to its delightful raisin-fig filling and decadent frosting. The Lady Baltimore Cake is a culinary masterpiece with a rich history and is sure to impress anyone who tastes its exquisite blend of ingredients.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1⅔ cups raisins, chopped
• 8 dried figs, finely chopped
• ½ cup brandy

CAKE:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoons grated orange peel
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1⅓ cups buttermilk
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 egg whites

FROSTING:

• 2 cups butter, softened
• 6 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ to ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a small bowl, combine the chopped raisins and figs. Add brandy and toss to combine. Let the mixture stand, covered, at room temperature for about 2 hours or until the brandy is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottoms of three greased 8-in. round cake pans with parchment paper and grease the paper.
3. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, grated orange peel, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well blended. Add the buttermilk, softened butter, and vanilla, then beat on low speed for 30 seconds or until the dry ingredients are moistened. Beat on medium for 2 minutes. Add the egg whites and beat for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Transfer the batter to the prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before removing them to wire racks to cool completely.
5. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar. Beat in the vanilla extract and enough heavy whipping cream to achieve the desired consistency. For the filling, remove 1 cup of frosting to a small bowl and stir in the pecans and the soaked raisin mixture.
6. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread half of the filling on top. Add another cake layer and top it with the remaining filling. Finally, add the last cake layer and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.

YIELD: 16 servings

PREP TIME: 30 minutes + 2 hours standing

BAKE TIME: 20-25 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Toast the pecans before adding them to the filling for enhanced flavor.

TIPS:

• Serve the Lady Baltimore Cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee to complement its sophisticated flavors.
• Garnish the cake with additional pecans or dried fig slices for an elegant presentation.

In conclusion, the Lady Baltimore Cake is a work of art that Cleo Gonske crafted with love for her father’s birthday and has since become his all-time favorite. This cake boasts a symphony of flavors, with its raisin-fig filling and rich frosting, making it a true delight for the senses.

The history of the Lady Baltimore Cake is shrouded in mystery, with various stories attributing its origin to different individuals and places. Nevertheless, one thing is certain: this cake is a classic with a distinctive taste that transcends time and place.

The cake’s preparation involves combining a range of complementary ingredients, including raisins, figs, and brandy, which contribute to its luxurious and unique flavor profile. The grated orange peel adds a hint of citrus brightness to the cake, enhancing its overall complexity.

As the cake bakes to perfection, its irresistible aroma fills the kitchen, tempting everyone with its delectable allure. The airy and moist layers are the perfect canvas for the rich and creamy frosting, infused with toasted pecans and the luscious raisin-fig mixture.

The Lady Baltimore Cake is an elegant and sophisticated dessert, making it an ideal choice for special occasions, celebrations, or when you simply want to savor a luxurious treat. Share the magic of this masterpiece with loved ones and embrace the joy that comes with each delectable bite.

So, the next time you seek a cake that is both impressive and uniquely flavored, consider baking the Lady Baltimore Cake. Let its history and delightful taste transport you to a world of elegance and timeless indulgence.