Lane Cake Recipe – A Southern Classic with a Touch of Elegance
The Lane Cake is a beloved Southern dessert that has been gracing tables for over a century. Known for its rich, boozy filling and fluffy white cake layers, this dessert is a showstopper at any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking to impress, the Lane Cake recipe is a must-try. Here’s a detailed review of this iconic recipe, including its history, flavor profile, and tips for perfecting it.
What is Lane Cake?
Lane Cake is a traditional Southern layer cake made with a light, airy sponge cake filled with a decadent mixture of egg yolks, butter, sugar, pecans, coconut, and raisins, often spiked with bourbon or rum. The cake is typically frosted with a fluffy white icing, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
The recipe was first created by Emma Rylander Lane of Alabama in 1898 and won first prize at a county fair. It gained national fame after being mentioned in Harper Lee’s classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird. Today, it remains a symbol of Southern hospitality and culinary tradition.
The Recipe: Step-by-Step Overview
While there are many variations of the Lane Cake recipe, the classic version includes the following components:
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 egg whites, beaten to stiff peaks
- For the Filling:
- 8 egg yolks
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup bourbon or rum (optional)
- For the Frosting:
- 4 egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Layers:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add milk and vanilla, then fold in the beaten egg whites.
- Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.
- Make the Filling:
- In a double boiler, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and butter until thickened.
- Stir in pecans, coconut, raisins, and bourbon. Let cool.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- In a heatproof bowl, combine egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar. Place over simmering water and whisk until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and beat until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the filling over the top. Repeat with the second layer and remaining filling.
- Top with the third layer and frost the entire cake with the egg white frosting.
Flavor Profile
The Lane Cake is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The cake itself is light and tender, providing the perfect base for the rich, boozy filling. The pecans add a satisfying crunch, while the coconut and raisins contribute sweetness and chewiness. The bourbon or rum gives the filling a warm, sophisticated kick, making it a dessert for grown-ups as much as for kids.
The frosting, made from whipped egg whites, is airy and not overly sweet, balancing the richness of the filling. Together, these elements create a dessert that is indulgent yet refined.
Tips for Success
- Beat Egg Whites Properly: For a light and fluffy cake, ensure your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks. Use a clean, grease-free bowl to achieve the best results.
- Don’t Skip the Bourbon: The alcohol is a key flavor component, but if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute it with fruit juice or omit it entirely.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the filling enhances their flavor and adds depth to the cake.
- Chill the Filling: Let the filling cool completely before assembling the cake to prevent it from making the layers soggy.
Strengths
- A perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- The boozy filling adds a unique, sophisticated twist.
- The cake is visually stunning, making it ideal for special occasions.
- The recipe is versatile and allows for customization (e.g., swapping raisins for dried cranberries or using rum instead of bourbon).
Weaknesses
- The recipe is time-consuming and requires multiple steps.
- The filling can be tricky to perfect, especially for novice bakers.
- The use of raw egg whites in the frosting may be a concern for some (though the heat from the double boiler mitigates this risk).
Final Thoughts
The Lane Cake recipe is a labor of love, but the result is well worth the effort. It’s a dessert that embodies the warmth and elegance of Southern baking, perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any occasion that calls for something special. Whether you’re honoring tradition or putting your own spin on it, this cake is sure to impress.
Rating: 9/10
If you’re ready to take on a baking challenge and treat yourself to a slice of Southern history, the Lane Cake is a recipe you won’t regret trying. Serve it with a cup of coffee or a glass of sweet tea, and enjoy the magic of this timeless dessert!