Ever wonder why the Lady Baltimore cake keeps popping up at family gatherings? It’s a light, fluffy sponge topped with a sweet cream cheese frosting that feels both old‑fashioned and fresh. The cake started in the South US in the early 1900s and got its name from the city of Baltimore, where it was a favorite at tea parties. Today it’s a go‑to for anyone who loves a simple cake with a touch of elegance.
If you’ve never baked one, don’t worry – the recipe is straightforward and the ingredients are pantry‑friendly. You’ll need flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, and a little baking powder. For the frosting, cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla do the trick. The key is not to overmix the batter; gentle folds keep the crumb tender.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing two 9‑inch round pans. In a bowl, cream 1 cup of softened butter with 1¼ cups of sugar until the mix looks pale. Add three eggs one at a time, beating well after each. In a separate bowl, whisk 2 ½ cups of flour with 2 tsp of baking powder. Alternate adding the dry mix and ½ cup of milk to the butter‑egg mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Stir until just combined – no need for a smooth batter, a few lumps are fine.
Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for about 25‑30 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
For the frosting, beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese, ¼ cup of butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 tsp of vanilla until smooth. If the frosting feels too thick, add a splash of milk; if it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. Spread a thin layer of frosting on the first cake layer, place the second layer on top, and then frost the whole cake. Finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries for extra flair.
One reason the Lady Baltimore cake stays popular is how easy it is to dress up. A simple swirl of frosting gives a classic look, but you can also pipe rosettes or create a rustic “naked” style by leaving some sponge visible. Fresh fruit – strawberries, peaches, or blueberries – adds color and a burst of flavor.
If you want a twist, try swapping the milk for orange juice or adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter. The citrus note pairs nicely with the tangy cream cheese frosting. For a lighter version, replace half the butter with Greek yogurt; the texture stays moist while cutting down on fat.
Storing the cake is a breeze. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Bring it to room temperature before serving so the frosting softens and the flavor brightens.
Whether you’re making it for a birthday, a tea party, or just a Sunday treat, the Lady Baltimore cake offers a sweet taste of history without a lot of fuss. Grab the ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a slice of tradition right at home.
Ever wondered why it's called Lady Baltimore cake? This article uncovers the cake's unusual name, shares details about its origin and history, and even busts a few myths. You'll get a peek at what makes this Southern classic so special, plus some helpful baking tips if you want to try it yourself. Whether you're a cake lover or a history buff, this read will satisfy your curiosity and maybe spark your next baking project.
