Tennessee, the Volunteer State, is known for its rich history, vibrant music scene, and stunning natural beauty. But beyond the blues and the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee boasts a delectable official symbol: the Tennessee state cake. But what exactly is this state cake, and how did it come to represent the culinary identity of Tennessee? Let’s delve into the sweet details.
Unveiling the Tennessee State Cake: The Story of the Stack Cake
Tennessee’s official state cake is the stack cake, a unique and historically significant dessert deeply rooted in Appalachian tradition. It’s not your typical layer cake adorned with frosting. Instead, it’s a collection of thin, unfrosted cake layers stacked high, often filled with dried apple filling, creating a rustic and flavorful treat. The stack cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of community, celebration, and the enduring spirit of Tennessee’s people.
A Cake with Deep Roots: History and Origins
The stack cake’s history stretches back to the early settlers of the Appalachian region. Resources were often scarce, and elaborate ingredients for fancy cakes were unavailable. The stack cake emerged as a practical and resourceful way to create a celebratory dessert. The simplicity of the cake and the use of readily available ingredients, like dried apples, made it a staple at gatherings, especially weddings.
Each layer of the stack cake was traditionally baked by a different woman in the community, contributing to a collective effort that symbolized unity and support for the newly married couple. The height of the cake would sometimes reflect the popularity and well-wishes for the couple. This communal baking process reinforced social bonds and created a tangible representation of shared celebration.
The cake wasn’t just about weddings, though. It also found its place at community suppers, family reunions, and other special occasions. Its versatility and adaptability made it a constant presence in Appalachian life. The lack of frosting also meant it could be stored and transported easily, a valuable asset in a time before refrigeration.
From Humble Beginnings to State Symbol
The stack cake remained a beloved regional specialty for generations. However, its journey to becoming the official state cake of Tennessee was a more recent development. Through the efforts of passionate Tennesseans who recognized the cultural and historical significance of the stack cake, legislation was introduced to formally recognize it as a state symbol.
In 2016, the Tennessee General Assembly officially designated the stack cake as the state cake. This designation not only honored the cake’s rich heritage but also brought greater recognition to Appalachian culture and the state’s unique culinary identity. The act of enshrining the stack cake into law solidified its place in Tennessee history and ensured that its story would continue to be shared and celebrated.
Deconstructing the Stack Cake: Ingredients and Preparation
The beauty of the stack cake lies in its simplicity. While variations exist, the core ingredients and preparation methods remain consistent, reflecting the resourcefulness and adaptability of its creators.
The Cake Layers: A Foundation of Flavor
The cake layers themselves are relatively thin and are often made with a simple batter. Typical ingredients include flour, shortening or butter, sugar, baking soda or baking powder, and buttermilk or sour milk. Some recipes incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth and flavor.
The texture of the cake layers is usually slightly dense and crumbly, which allows them to absorb the moisture from the apple filling and soften over time. This characteristic texture is crucial to the overall experience of eating a stack cake.
Variations in the cake layers can reflect regional preferences or family traditions. Some recipes might include the addition of sorghum molasses for a deeper, more complex sweetness. Others might use different types of flour, such as self-rising flour, to achieve a slightly different texture.
The Apple Filling: A Sweet and Tangy Center
The star of the stack cake is undoubtedly the apple filling. Traditionally, dried apples are rehydrated and simmered with sugar and spices until they become a thick, sweet, and tangy concoction. The specific type of apples used can vary, but tart varieties like Granny Smith or Winesap are often preferred for their ability to balance the sweetness of the sugar.
The spices used in the apple filling also contribute significantly to its flavor profile. Cinnamon is almost always present, and other common additions include nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. These spices create a warm and comforting aroma that is reminiscent of autumn.
The apple filling is typically cooked down until it reaches a jam-like consistency. This ensures that it will hold its shape and not make the cake layers soggy. The thickness of the filling also allows it to effectively bind the layers together, creating a cohesive and satisfying dessert.
Assembling the Stack: A Labor of Love
Assembling the stack cake is a process that requires patience and care. Each cake layer is spread with a generous amount of apple filling and then stacked on top of the previous layer. The process is repeated until all the cake layers and filling are used.
Once the stack cake is assembled, it’s traditionally allowed to sit for at least 24 hours, or even longer, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake layers to soften. This resting period is crucial to the overall texture and flavor of the cake. The longer it sits, the more the cake layers absorb the moisture from the apple filling, resulting in a tender and flavorful dessert.
The finished stack cake is typically served in wedges, revealing the alternating layers of cake and apple filling. It’s often enjoyed at room temperature, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Beyond the Recipe: The Stack Cake’s Cultural Significance
The stack cake is more than just a recipe; it’s a cultural artifact that embodies the values and traditions of the Appalachian region. Its history, ingredients, and preparation methods all contribute to its significance as a symbol of community, resourcefulness, and resilience.
A Symbol of Community and Collaboration
As mentioned earlier, the stack cake was traditionally a communal effort, with each woman in the community contributing a layer. This collaborative aspect of the cake reflects the importance of community support and cooperation in Appalachian culture.
The act of sharing food, especially a special dessert like the stack cake, fostered social bonds and strengthened community ties. It was a way to celebrate together, to support one another, and to create lasting memories.
The tradition of multiple bakers contributing to the cake also emphasized the value of individual contributions to a collective effort. Each layer, while unique in its own way, contributed to the overall success and beauty of the cake.
A Reflection of Resourcefulness and Adaptability
The stack cake’s simple ingredients and preparation methods reflect the resourcefulness and adaptability of the Appalachian people. In a region where resources were often limited, they were able to create a delicious and celebratory dessert using readily available ingredients.
The use of dried apples, for example, was a practical way to preserve fruit for use throughout the year. The simple batter for the cake layers was also designed to be made with ingredients that were commonly found in Appalachian households.
This resourcefulness and adaptability are key characteristics of Appalachian culture. The ability to make the most of limited resources and to find creative solutions to challenges is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the people who call this region home.
A Celebration of Heritage and Tradition
By designating the stack cake as the official state cake, Tennessee has recognized the importance of preserving and celebrating its cultural heritage. The stack cake is a tangible link to the past, connecting present-day Tennesseans to their ancestors and their traditions.
The act of baking and sharing a stack cake is a way to honor the legacy of the Appalachian people and to keep their traditions alive. It’s a way to remember the values of community, resourcefulness, and resilience that have shaped the region for generations.
The stack cake serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and of celebrating the unique traditions that make each region of the country special. It’s a sweet symbol of Tennessee’s past, present, and future.
Bringing the Stack Cake to Your Kitchen: A Simple Recipe
While nothing beats a stack cake made with generations of tradition, here’s a simplified recipe to get you started on your stack cake journey.
Ingredients for the Cake Layers:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shortening or butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
Ingredients for the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups dried apples
- 6 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large saucepan, combine the dried apples and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the apples are soft.
- Stir in the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the filling is thick and jam-like. Let cool.
- Prepare the Cake Layers: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the shortening or butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Divide the batter into 6-8 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a thin circle (about 8-9 inches in diameter).
- Bake each layer on a lightly greased baking sheet for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool completely.
- Assemble the Stack Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with a generous amount of apple filling. Repeat with the remaining layers, stacking them on top of each other.
- Wrap the assembled cake tightly in plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake layers to soften.
Enjoy your homemade Tennessee stack cake! Remember that this recipe can be adjusted to fit your personal preferences. Feel free to experiment with different spices, types of apples, or even add a touch of sorghum molasses to the cake layers. The most important thing is to enjoy the process of creating this iconic Appalachian dessert.
What is Tennessee’s official state cake?
Tennessee’s official state cake is the Tennessee Stack Cake. It gained this designation in 2016, recognizing its deep roots in Appalachian culture and history. The stack cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of community, tradition, and shared heritage across the state, particularly in the eastern regions.
This distinctive cake is made up of multiple thin layers, typically dried apple filling layered between the cake rounds. These layers are stacked high, creating a visually impressive and structurally unique cake. Traditionally, neighbors and friends would each bake a layer, then bring them together for a community celebration, particularly weddings.
Why was the Tennessee Stack Cake chosen as the state cake?
The Tennessee Stack Cake was chosen for its historical significance and cultural relevance to the state. It represents a time when communities relied on each other and celebrated together. The process of creating the cake, with each person contributing a layer, symbolizes unity and cooperation, values deeply rooted in Tennessee history.
Beyond its symbolic value, the stack cake also reflects the agricultural landscape of the region, with apples being a key ingredient readily available in the Appalachian mountains. The process of drying the apples also speaks to the resourcefulness and ingenuity of early settlers who needed to preserve food for the winter months. Its recognition as the state cake helps to preserve and celebrate this unique part of Tennessee’s heritage.
What are the key ingredients in a Tennessee Stack Cake?
The key ingredients in a Tennessee Stack Cake are relatively simple, reflecting its historical origins. Flour, shortening (or butter/lard), sugar, and spices form the foundation of the cake layers. The spices often include cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, which contribute to its warm and comforting flavor profile.
The filling is arguably the most important component, typically consisting of dried apples cooked down with sugar and spices. This filling is the defining characteristic of the stack cake, providing moisture and a distinct flavor that complements the cake layers. Variations might include adding molasses or other sweeteners to the apple filling depending on regional and family traditions.
How is a Tennessee Stack Cake traditionally made?
Traditionally, a Tennessee Stack Cake is made by baking multiple thin layers of cake, one at a time, in a cast-iron skillet or oven. Each layer is allowed to cool before being stacked with a layer of dried apple filling in between. The process requires patience and attention to detail, ensuring that each layer is evenly baked and properly stacked.
Once all the layers are assembled, the cake is typically allowed to sit for a day or two before being served. This resting period allows the apple filling to fully moisten the cake layers, creating a soft and flavorful texture throughout. This soaking process is crucial for achieving the desired taste and consistency of a traditional stack cake.
How does the Tennessee Stack Cake differ from other types of cakes?
The Tennessee Stack Cake differs from other cakes primarily in its layered structure and the use of dried apple filling. Unlike typical cakes that are baked as a single unit, the stack cake consists of multiple individual layers stacked on top of each other. This layered approach is what gives the stack cake its distinctive appearance and texture.
The dried apple filling is another key distinguishing factor. Most other cakes utilize fresh fruit or other types of fillings, while the stack cake relies on the concentrated sweetness and unique flavor of dried apples. The combination of the thin cake layers and the apple filling creates a texture that is both moist and slightly chewy, unlike the typically fluffy texture of other cakes.
Where can I find authentic Tennessee Stack Cake recipes?
Authentic Tennessee Stack Cake recipes can be found in various sources, including cookbooks dedicated to Appalachian cuisine and regional history. Local libraries and historical societies often have collections of recipes passed down through generations, providing valuable insight into the traditional methods and variations.
Online resources, such as food blogs and websites focused on Southern cooking, also offer a range of Tennessee Stack Cake recipes. However, it’s important to verify the authenticity of these recipes by comparing them to traditional sources and considering the regional variations that may exist. Consulting with individuals who have grown up making stack cakes is another great way to get access to truly authentic recipes and techniques.
Can the Tennessee Stack Cake be adapted for modern baking techniques?
Yes, the Tennessee Stack Cake can be adapted for modern baking techniques while still maintaining its essence. While traditional methods involve baking each layer individually in a skillet, modern ovens can be used to bake multiple layers simultaneously, streamlining the process.
Furthermore, while traditional recipes might rely on shortening or lard, modern adaptations may use butter or oil for a lighter flavor. The apple filling can also be adapted to include variations like adding brown sugar or maple syrup for enhanced sweetness. Ultimately, the key is to maintain the core elements of the stack cake – the layered structure, the dried apple filling, and the warm spices – while embracing modern techniques for convenience and personal preferences.