The Coffee Layer Cake, a symphony of rich flavors and contrasting textures, invites us to savor the warmth of coffee in an artful dessert. This cake is a testament to the intricate dance of flavors and the harmony between dark and white layers. As we delve into the history and composition of the Coffee Layer Cake, we uncover a story that revolves around the evolution of coffee as a culinary companion and the creation of layered masterpieces.

The Coffee Layer Cake finds its inspiration in the enchanting world of coffee, a beloved beverage that has shaped cultures and cuisines for centuries. Coffee’s journey from its discovery to its global popularity led to its integration into diverse culinary creations. As coffee gained favor, it gradually made its way into baked goods, adding a layer of depth and sophistication to desserts.

Layer cakes, a hallmark of confectionery ingenuity, began to appear in various forms during the 19th century. With advancements in baking techniques and ingredient availability, bakers seized the opportunity to experiment with layering flavors, colors, and textures. The Coffee Layer Cake emerged as a testament to this artistry, blending the allure of coffee with the elegance of a tiered cake.

INGREDIENTS

Dark Part:

• 1 cupful dark brown sugar
• 2/3 cupful cold strong coffee
• 3 yolks of eggs
• 1/2 cupful Crisco (shortening)
• 1 tablespoonful molasses
• 1/4 cupful raisins
• 2 cupfuls flour
• 2 teaspoonfuls baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoonful powdered cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoonful powdered cloves
• 1/2 teaspoonful grated nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoonful salt

White Part:

• 1/2 cupful Crisco
• 1 cupful granulated sugar
• 3 whites of eggs
• 2/3 cupful milk
• 2 cupfuls flour
• 2 teaspoonfuls baking powder
• 1 teaspoonful vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoonful salt

INSTRUCTIONS

Preparing the Dark Part:

1. Creaming and Mixing: Cream together the Crisco and dark brown sugar. Add the well-beaten egg yolks, cold strong coffee, and molasses.
2. Adding Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, baking powder, powdered cinnamon, powdered cloves, grated nutmeg, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients into the batter until well incorporated.
3. Incorporating Raisins: Fold in the raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
4. Dividing and Baking: Divide the batter into two Criscoed and floured layer cake tins. Bake in a moderately hot oven for around twenty minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Preparing the White Part:

1. Creaming and Mixing: Cream together the Crisco and granulated sugar. Add the milk, vanilla extract, and sifted dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt).
2. Whipping Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
3. Folding in Egg Whites: Gently fold the stiffly beaten egg whites into the white cake batter, creating a light and airy texture.
4. Baking: Divide the white batter into two more Criscoed and floured layer cake tins. Bake these layers as well.

Assembling and Frosting:

1. Layering: Once all the cake layers have cooled, carefully assemble the cake by placing the dark layers alternated with the white layers.
2. Creating the Frosting: In a saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar and water. Add Crisco and vanilla extract, then boil the mixture until it forms a soft ball when tested in cold water or reaches 240°F (116°C).
3. Finishing Touch: Remove the mixture from the heat and beat it until it begins to cream. Add chopped raisins to the mixture and spread it over the assembled cake, allowing it to dry and set.

• The Coffee Layer Cake is a testament to the timeless allure of coffee and the artistry of layered confections. With each bite, you’re savoring not only a blend of rich flavors but also the culmination of a journey that began with the discovery of coffee’s warmth and ended with a masterpiece of culinary innovation. This cake serves as an invitation to experience the enchanting symphony of contrasting layers and the delightful harmony of flavors that have delighted palates for generations.