The Ultimate Lane Cake Recipe: A Classic Southern Dessert for Every Occasion
If you’re looking to impress your guests with a timeless Southern dessert, the Lane Cake is the perfect choice. This iconic cake, made famous by Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, is a rich, decadent treat filled with a luscious fruit and nut filling and topped with a fluffy frosting. In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step Lane Cake recipe that’s easy to follow and guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Plus, we’ll share tips to make your Lane Cake stand out!
What is Lane Cake?
Lane Cake is a traditional Southern dessert that originated in Alabama in the late 19th century. It’s a layered cake made with a light, fluffy sponge, filled with a mixture of dried fruits, nuts, and bourbon, and topped with a creamy frosting. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a show-stopping dessert for holidays, celebrations, or any special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The bourbon-infused filling adds a unique depth of flavor.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: This cake is a showstopper at weddings, holidays, or family gatherings.
- Customizable: You can adjust the filling ingredients to suit your preferences.
Lane Cake Recipe
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 whole milk
- 6 large egg whites, beaten to stiff peaks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 8 large egg yolks
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup raisins, chopped
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup bourbon (optional, but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Fold in the beaten egg whites gently to keep the batter light and airy.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a double boiler, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10-12 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the raisins, coconut, pecans, bourbon, and vanilla extract. Let the filling cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Frosting
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and whisk constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm.
- Remove from heat and beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form and the frosting is glossy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the filling evenly over the top.
- Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining filling.
- Top with the third cake layer and frost the entire cake with the prepared frosting.
- Decorate with additional nuts or coconut if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Lane Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can deflate the egg whites and result in a dense cake.
- Let the Filling Cool Completely: This prevents it from making the cake layers soggy.
- Add a Bourbon Twist: For an extra kick, brush the cake layers with a bit of bourbon before adding the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Lane Cake at room temperature for the best flavor. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea, or enjoy it as a dessert after a hearty Southern meal. It’s perfect for holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter, but it’s also a great choice for birthdays and weddings.
Why Lane Cake is a Southern Classic
Lane Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of Southern hospitality and tradition. Its rich history and unique flavor profile make it a beloved treat that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this Lane Cake recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
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