This Southern Cake From The 1800s Deserves A Revival

The South has popularized plenty of cakes we love to put in our pie holes. From the famous hummingbird cake, which uses bananas, pineapple, and pecans to transform a spice cake smothered in cream cheese frosting, to the Southern caramel cake, with its multiple layers of sponge cake topped with thick caramel icing, the South knows how to create a sweet bite. But the one cake that originated in this region that deserves a revival is known as the Lane or prize cake, and once you have it, there's no going back.

The Lane cake hails from Alabama and is best described as layers of moist white sponge cake, with each layer separated by a rich filling made with egg yolks, sugar, butter, raisins, and whiskey or brandy. Modern versions often add ingredients like pecans, coconut, and cherries. It is frosted with a delicate, airy, white frosting, and each bite is like a symphony for the taste buds. Its inventor was a woman by the name of Emma Rylander Lane. Rylander Lane entered her cake in a fair in Columbus, Georgia, in 1898 and took home first prize.

The Lane cake is truly special and is definitely a Southern dessert that deserves a comeback. It famously earned a mention in Harper Lee's novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird," and it always adorned President Jimmy Carter's Christmas spread. In fact, when the Carters took up residence on Pennsylvania Avenue, Jimmy's mother-in-law, Francesca "Allie" Smith, allegedly gave the White House pastry chefs a tutorial on the ins and outs of making the confection. And if that wasn't endorsement enough, Alabama declared it the official state cake in 2016.

If you want to try your hand at making a Lane cake, getting each component just right is mission-critical. The original recipe calls for 8 egg whites and no yolks in the cake batter. Folding them into the batter, whipped until they form stiff peaks, will give the cake its fluffy texture. 

Additionally, pay attention when you are making the custard filling. If it gets too hot, it can take on an eggy taste and texture, and as much as we love breakfast, that's not the vibe of this cake. 

Finally, the topping should be glossy, thick, and marshmallow-like. When done right, the three elements create a bite fit for a head of state or any treasured guest you invite to the table.