Imperial Cake (baked For Mary's Wedding) Recipe

Imperial Cake, also known as Mary's Wedding Cake, is a rich and decadent dessert with a long history. This recipe has been passed down for generations and is often reserved for special occasions, particularly weddings. The cake's origins can be traced back to ancient times when it was believed that serving sweet and lavish cakes at weddings symbolized prosperity, happiness, and a sweet start to the couple's new life together.

Fun Fact: The Imperial Cake is named after Queen Mary, who was known for her love of elaborate and lavish cakes. It is said that this particular recipe was her favorite and was often served at royal weddings during her reign.

Now, let's dive into the delightful recipe for Imperial Cake (baked for Mary's Wedding):

Ingredients:
- 1 pound sugar
- 1 pound butter
- 3/4 pound flour
- 1 pound raisins, seeded
- 1 pound almonds
- 1/2 pound thinly shaved citron
- 1 lemon
- 1 nutmeg
- 12 eggs

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan, ensuring it's large enough to hold the batter.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using an electric mixer or by hand using a wooden spoon.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and nutmeg. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition. The batter should be smooth and consistent.

4. In a food processor or using a sharp knife, finely chop the almonds. Make sure they are not ground into a powder, as some texture is desired. Set aside.

5. Grate the lemon zest and squeeze out the juice. Add the zest and juice to the batter, stirring well to incorporate the flavors.

6. Gently fold in the raisins, shaved citron, and chopped almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. Gradually add the beaten eggs to the cake batter, mixing thoroughly to create a rich and moist texture.

8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60-75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

9. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a serving platter.

10. Optional: You can decorate the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze if desired. This will add a touch of elegance to your Imperial Cake.

This Imperial Cake is a true labor of love, with its rich buttery taste and delightful blend of raisins, almonds, and citron. It is a perfect choice for special occasions, particularly weddings. The crunch of the almonds and the burst of flavors from the raisins and citron create a cake that is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious.

Fun Fact: The Imperial Cake is often accompanied by Royal Icing, which is a smooth, hard icing made with egg whites and confectioners' sugar. It is traditionally used to create intricate decorations and designs on wedding cakes. Adding a layer of Royal Icing to your Imperial Cake would make it truly fit for royalty!

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoyed baking the Imperial Cake, you may also want to try these similar recipe dishes that are equally delightful:

1. Fruitcake: Fruitcake is a classic dessert often enjoyed during the holiday season. It is made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, soaked in brandy or rum for a rich and moist texture.

2. Almond Pound Cake: If you loved the almond flavor in the Imperial Cake, you'll enjoy an Almond Pound Cake. This cake features the same buttery richness but with a stronger almond taste.

3. Citrus Poppy Seed Cake: For a refreshing twist, try a Citrus Poppy Seed Cake. It combines the tangy flavors of citrus fruits, such as lemon or orange, with the nutty aroma of poppy seeds.

4. Classic Butter Pound Cake: If you prefer a simpler yet equally scrumptious cake, a Classic Butter Pound Cake will not disappoint. It has a dense and buttery texture that is perfect on its own or served with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.

So, whether you opt for the Imperial Cake or explore these similar recipe dishes, you can never go wrong with a delicious homemade cake that brings joy and celebration to any gathering. Happy baking!