As a seasoned food blogger, I’m excited to delve into the rich history and irresistible flavors of Lane cake recipes. Originating from the talented hands of Emma Rylander Lane in 1898, this iconic Southern delicacy has stood the test of time, captivating taste buds across the region. Lane cake, featured in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” embodies the essence of Southern culture with its boozy layers and decadent fillings.
Crafted with layers of bourbon-laced raisin filling between moist vanilla butter cake, Lane cake offers a symphony of flavors that only get better with time. While some versions opt for a cooked white icing, true connoisseurs know that the real magic lies in the generous coating of the luscious filling. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any day, Lane cake is a timeless classic that promises to delight with every bite.
Ingredients
Lane cake recipes call for a delightful combination of ingredients to create a rich and indulgent treat. Ensure you have everything ready to embark on this flavorful baking journey.
For the Cake
- 3 1/2 cups sifted cake flour or 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 1/2 teaspoons double-acting baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg (optional)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or 1 teaspoon orange extract
- 1 cup milk
- 8 large egg whites
- 2 cups raisins (preferably large such as muscat or monukka)
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup bourbon or brandy
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
To create a delicious Lane cake that embodies the rich flavors and history of this classic Southern dessert, you will need the following equipment:
For Baking the Cake Layers:
- Three 9-inch round cake pans
- Parchment paper for lining the pans
- Electric hand mixer
- Large mixing bowls for batter preparation
- Cooling racks for resting the baked layers
- Small saucepan for boiling water
- Heatproof bowl for creating the frosting
- Handheld electric mixer for beating the egg whites
- Spatula for spreading the frosting
- Boiling water for rehydrating dried peach halves
Ensure you have all the necessary equipment ready before starting to make your Lane cake. Having everything prepared will streamline the baking process and help you achieve a delicious and visually appealing dessert.
Preparation
Before diving into the delicious Lane cake recipe, it’s essential to prepare and measure all the ingredients accurately. Setting up your workspace and equipment in advance can make the baking process much smoother.
Measuring Ingredients
To ensure the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Lane cake, precise measurement of ingredients is crucial. Here are the key ingredients and their quantities needed for this recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cake flour | 3 cups / 360g |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup / 200g |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup / 226g |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Egg whites | 8 large |
Preparing the Cake Pans
Properly preparing your cake pans is essential to ensure your Lane cakes come out easily and intact. Follow these steps to prepare the cake pans:
- Grease the Pans: lightly grease the bottoms of three 9-inch cake tins to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Line with Parchment: cut out parchment paper rounds to fit the bottom of each cake pan. This additional layer will further prevent sticking and make for easy removal.
- Brush with Pan Release: apply a thin layer of homemade pan release goop to the sides and bottoms of the cake pans. This concoction will ensure the cakes release effortlessly after baking.
By meticulously measuring your ingredients and preparing your cake pans adequately, you’ll be on your way to baking a scrumptious Lane cake that will impress your guests.
Directions
When it comes to making a delicious Lane cake, following these step-by-step directions will guide you through creating a decadent and impressive dessert that everyone will love.
Making the Cake Batter
To start, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Butter and flour four 9-inch cake pans. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine all the ingredients for the cake batter and mix until smooth and well incorporated.
Baking the Cake Layers
Evenly distribute the cake batter into the prepared cake pans. Bake them in the preheated oven for around 20 minutes, or until the tops of the cakes spring back when touched and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
Preparing the Filling
Gather all the necessary ingredients for the filling before starting. If you have an insta-read thermometer, have it ready as well. Follow the specific instructions provided to create the bourbon-infused raisin filling for your Lane cake.
Assembly
Assembling a Lane cake is where the magic truly happens. Let’s layer the cake with the rich bourbon-infused filling and adorn it with decadent frosting to create a dessert masterpiece.
Layering the Cake with Filling
- Start by placing a cake layer on a serving plate and generously spread a third of the sumptuous filling on top, ensuring a luscious layer of flavors.
- Add the second cake layer and cover it with half of the remaining filling, building up the delightful contrasts in each bite.
- Finish the layering with the third cake layer. For a three-layer cake, apply the remaining filling on top, or if crafting a four-layer cake, leave the top bare to frost later, encapsulating the richness within.
- Secure the layers together in a covered container, allowing the cake to mature in flavor by refrigerating it for at least two days. Daily, spoon any extra filling that seeps out back onto the cake for maximum taste infusion.
- Ready the frosting by combining egg yolks, sugar, butter, milk, and a touch of vanilla and bourbon in a medium saucepan to craft a velvety, flavorful topping that complements the cake layers seamlessly.
- Once the frosting mixture has cooled, divvy it into thirds and prepare to frost the cake layers. Start by placing a cake layer on a board, and frost the top with a portion of the filling, refraining from frosting the sides for a distinctive presentation.
- Repeat the process for the following layers, ensuring an even distribution of filling between each cake layer.
- To complete the cake, decorate the top layer with cherry halves, adding a final touch of elegance to this indulgent dessert.
As the frosting sets, the flavors develop, creating a Lane cake that gets better with every passing day. With thoughtful layering and precise frosting, your Lane cake is ready to be enjoyed and shared with those who appreciate the art of traditional Southern baking.
Serving and Storage
Lane cake is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. The flavors meld together beautifully when allowed to sit for a day or two. As it ages, the cake becomes more flavorful and moist, making it a delightful treat to serve and indulge in.
How to Serve Lane Cake
To serve Lane cake, slice it into generous portions and place them on individual dessert plates. You can enjoy it as is or pair it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a touch of creaminess. The pecan and coconut topping adds a delightful crunch to each bite, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile of the cake.
Storing Tips
After slicing and serving Lane cake, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the cake’s freshness and prevent it from drying out. If you have leftover cake scraps or filling, they can be stored separately for snacking or for future use. The assembled Lane cake can also be wrapped in plastic wrap and frozen for longer storage. To enjoy a slice, simply defrost it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
Lane cakes are a delightful blend of history, flavor, and tradition. With their origins dating back to Emma Rylander Lane in 1898, these cakes have stood the test of time as a beloved Southern dessert. The meticulous preparation process, from measuring ingredients precisely to layering and decorating, ensures a delicious outcome. Serving Lane cake at the right temperature enhances its flavors, making each bite a true delight. Whether enjoyed with whipped cream or relishing the crunchy texture of pecans and coconut, Lane cakes offer a unique culinary experience. By following storage tips, you can savor the freshness of Lane cake for days to come. Embrace the heritage and taste of Lane cakes in your next baking adventure.