Old-Fashioned Stack Cakes

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Old-Fashioned Stack Cakes, a cherished holiday treat that has been passed down through generations in Stephanie Gilbert’s family from Whitesburg, Kentucky. These delightful cakes are a beloved Christmas tradition, eagerly anticipated by everyone. The secret to their distinctiveness lies in the super-thin layers, creating a delectable texture that sets them apart from other cakes.

Prepare to be transported back in time with this classic Appalachian wedding confection, where apple preserves, apple butter, or dried apples are lovingly spread between each delicate layer of cake. Neighbors would bring single tiers of the cake to weddings, and the bride’s family would add the apple layer on top, symbolizing community unity and love.

The tender, ginger-spiced cake layers are meticulously prepared, and when combined with the rich, comforting flavors of apple butter, they create an irresistible dessert that warms both the heart and the soul. As you take the first bite, the nostalgic taste of Old-Fashioned Stack Cakes will evoke memories of joyful gatherings and treasured moments with loved ones during the holiday season.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups apple butter
• Additional apple butter (optional)

PREPARATIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ginger, baking soda, and salt. Add this mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the molasses and buttermilk, beating well after each addition.
2. Drop two scant 1/4 cupfuls of batter 7 inches apart onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. With well-floured fingers, pat each mound into a 5-to-6-inch circle. Bake for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the pans and cool on wire racks. Repeat this process with the remaining batter.
3. To assemble the stack cakes, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with 2 tablespoons of apple butter. Repeat these layers four more times, topping with a sixth layer to complete the stack. Repeat the process to create two more stack cakes. Refrigerate the cakes, covered, until ready to serve. If desired, serve with additional apple butter.

YIELD: Makes 3 stack cakes (6 slices each)

PREP: 35 minutes, BAKE: 5 minutes per batch

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Use parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake layers from the baking sheet.
• Handle the delicate cake layers with care during assembly to maintain their thin and tender texture.

TIPS:

• For a creative twist, consider adding a sprinkling of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple butter for added warmth and flavor.
• Serve the Old-Fashioned Stack Cakes as a heartwarming dessert during the holiday season or as a delightful treat at special occasions throughout the year.

In conclusion, Old-Fashioned Stack Cakes bring a taste of cherished tradition and heartwarming flavors to your table. Handed down through generations in Stephanie Gilbert’s family from Whitesburg, Kentucky, these delightful cakes are a time-honored Christmas treat that everyone eagerly awaits. The uniqueness of these cakes lies in their super-thin layers, creating a delightful texture that sets them apart from ordinary cakes.

Step into the past and savor the flavors of an Appalachian wedding confection, where each tender layer of ginger-spiced cake is lovingly complemented by apple preserves, apple butter, or dried apples. A symbol of unity and love, this cake was brought by neighbors in single tiers to weddings, with the bride’s family adding the apple layer on top.

As you enjoy the first bite of Old-Fashioned Stack Cakes, you’ll be transported to a place of treasured memories, joyful gatherings, and the warmth of loved ones during the holiday season. The heavenly combination of the moist, spiced cake layers with the rich, comforting taste of apple butter is a delightful indulgence that warms both the heart and soul.

With the simple yet meticulous preparations, these cakes can be assembled with care, creating a beautiful presentation for your holiday table. Refrigerate the stack cakes until ready to serve, and if desired, add an extra drizzle of apple butter for a delightful finishing touch.

Share the joy and nostalgia of Old-Fashioned Stack Cakes with family and friends during the holiday season and beyond. Savor the tender layers and the delightful blend of flavors that make these cakes a beloved Christmas tradition in Kentucky and beyond.