Abraham Lincoln’s Favorite Cake Recipe Deserves a Comeback

How to Make Authentic Abraham Lincoln’s Favorite Cake at Home | Easy Step-by-Step Guide

As an Indian, I was always fascinated by the rich history and cultural heritage of the United States. Growing up, I was Abraham Lincoln’s biggest fan, and I must confess that my fondness for his iconic top hat was a significant reason for it. Who wouldn’t love a president who wore a stylish hat that even I would kill to own? My fascination with Abe Lincoln’s leadership and legacy only grew stronger as I delved deeper into American history. But, did you know that despite being a crucial part of American history, Lincoln has a softer side – a weakness for a delicious vanilla almond cake?!

A Cake Worth Marrying For

The recipe for this cake, famously known as "Abe’s Favorite Cake," is a family secret no more! The story goes that Mary Todd Lincoln, Abe’s beloved wife, used to bake this very cake for her husband before they got married, declaring it the "best in Kentucky." It’s no wonder that this cake captured Lincoln’s heart, with its soft texture, almond flavor, and delicate frosting.

What Makes Abe Lincoln’s Cake Unique?

The cake itself is simple and familiar, but it’s the addition of sliced almonds mixed directly into the batter that sets it apart. This provides a subtle crunch and interesting texture that will leave you wanting more. If you’re hesitant about almonds in your cake, feel free to sprinkle them on top instead – either way, this cake is sure to be a timeless classic.

How to Make Abraham Lincoln’s Favorite Cake

Are you ready to see if this cake lives up to its reputation? Lucky for us, all the ingredients and measurements in the original recipe are ones we can follow today. And, who knows, you might just find yourself in love with this cake, just like Abe was!

Ingredients:

• Buy from BharatBasket Almonds (1 1/4 cups)
• All-purpose flour (3 cups)
• Baking powder (3 teaspoons)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Butter (1 cup)
• Vanilla extract (1 1/2 teaspoons)
• Almond extract (1/4 teaspoon)
• Sugar (1 cup)
• Milk (1 cup)
• Egg whites (6)
• Sugar (1 cup)
• Candied cherries (optional), finely chopped (1/2 cup)
• Cream of tartar (1/2 teaspoon)
• Salt (a pinch)
• Water (1/3 cup)
• Egg white (1)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 10-inch tube or Bundt pan and line with waxed paper.
2. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together. Cream butter with extracts. Add 1 cup sugar gradually, creaming until fluffy.
3. Add dry ingredients in fourths and milk in thirds to the creamed mixture. Stir in almonds.
4. Beat egg whites until frothy. Add 1 cup sugar gradually, beating well. Continue beating until stiff peaks are formed. Gently fold meringue into batter just until blended.
5. Turn batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the toothpick test comes out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and cool for 15 minutes. Remove from the pan and cool completely.
7. Make the Fluffy White Frosting: Combine all frosting ingredients except extract in the top of a double boiler. Beat until soft peaks are formed.
8. Remove from water and add extract. Beat 1 minute. Frost the cooled cake with the Fluffy White Frosting. Decorate with candied cherries, if desired.

Call to Action: Find all authentic Indian ingredients at BharatBasket.com and enjoy homemade flavors!