20 Cake Recipes From the 50s That Deserve a Comeback
The 1950s were a time of culinary creativity, especially when it came to desserts. Cake recipes from this era reflect a blend of practicality, innovation, and the post-war optimism that permeated American kitchens. While some of these cakes have faded into obscurity, they still offer a delightful taste of nostalgia. Here are 20 unique cake recipes from the 1950s that are not commonly made today but remain as delicious as ever.
1. Tomato Soup Cake
This cake might sound strange, but the tomato soup adds a subtle, almost undetectable tang that enhances the spices within. The result is a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect with a simple cream cheese frosting.
2. Lane Cake
A Southern favorite, Lane Cake is packed with a rich filling of pecans, coconut, raisins, and a splash of bourbon. This layered cake is a bit of a project, but the results are a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
3. Bavarian Potato Coffee Cake
Using mashed potatoes as a base, this coffee cake is exceptionally moist. It’s often filled with dried fruits like raisins and spices, making it a hearty and comforting option for breakfast or dessert.
4. Springtime Fancy Cake
This colorful cake is perfect for spring celebrations. With its pastel-hued frosting and light, airy crumb, it’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. A great choice for Easter or garden parties.
5. Hot Milk Cake
Hot milk is the secret to this cake’s tender texture. Simple yet satisfying, this cake serves as a versatile base that can be topped with fruit, whipped cream, or just a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
6. Sour Cream Pound Cake
Tangy sour cream adds both flavor and moisture to this pound cake. It’s dense yet tender, making it ideal for pairing with fresh berries or a simple glaze.
7. Sweet Cream Cake
This cake relies on sweet cream for its rich, velvety texture. It’s a straightforward recipe that yields a moist and indulgent dessert, perfect for serving with a dollop of whipped cream.
8. Coca-Cola Cake
A classic Southern dessert, this cake incorporates Coca-Cola into the batter, giving it a unique flavor and a moist, tender crumb. It’s often topped with a rich chocolate frosting that perfectly complements the cake’s sweetness.
9. Orange Juice Cake
This citrusy cake is made with fresh orange juice and zest, providing a refreshing flavor that’s enhanced by a sweet glaze. It’s a light and zesty dessert, perfect for summer gatherings.
10. Old-Fashioned Zucchini Cake
Grated zucchini adds moisture to this cake without overpowering its flavor. Combined with walnuts and a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is a delicious way to enjoy your vegetables in dessert form.
11. Magic Lemon Pie
This vintage lemon pie features a tangy lemon filling that’s quick and easy to prepare. The sweet, flaky crust perfectly balances the tartness, making it a refreshing dessert for any occasion.
12. Rhubarb Custard Cake
This cake is a perfect blend of tart and sweet, with tangy rhubarb complemented by a creamy custard filling. It’s a seasonal delight that showcases the flavors of spring.
13. Silver Cake
A delicate and fluffy cake made primarily from egg whites, Silver Cake is light in texture and often finished with a simple glaze. It’s an elegant dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion.
14. German Chocolate Cake
This rich chocolate cake is known for its signature coconut-pecan frosting. The combination of moist chocolate cake and the sweet, nutty topping creates a truly decadent treat.
15. Vintage Mayonnaise Cake
Mayonnaise in a cake might seem unusual, but it actually makes this chocolate cake incredibly moist. Paired with a luscious chocolate frosting, it’s a rich and satisfying dessert that’s sure to surprise and delight.
16. Borden’s Cheesecake
This classic 1950s cheesecake recipe is simple yet creamy and rich. Perfect for special occasions, it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-made cheesecake.
17. Kentucky Butter Cake
This butter cake is soaked in a sweet, buttery glaze after baking, making it exceptionally moist and flavorful. It’s a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s sure to be a hit.
18. Triple Lemon Poke Cake
This cake is a lemon lover’s dream, featuring layers of lemon cake, lemon pudding, and a lemon glaze. It’s bright, zesty, and incredibly refreshing, perfect for summer.
19. Tandy Cake
This cake features layers of vanilla cake, creamy peanut butter, and a rich chocolate ganache. It’s a delightful combination of flavors, perfect for those who love the classic peanut butter and chocolate pairing.
20. Cinnamon Sugar Pound Cake
Swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar add warmth and depth to this buttery pound cake. It’s a comforting dessert that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
