If you’re a fan of Lady Baltimore Cake, then you’re probably aware of how delicate and delicious it is. This light and airy cake is made with fluffy egg whites, fragrant vanilla, and finely chopped fruits and nuts, all topped off with a fluffy boiled frosting.
But once you’ve baked this cake, how long does it last? In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of Lady Baltimore Cake, as well as ways to store and preserve it.
What is Lady Baltimore Cake?
Before we dive into the shelf life of Lady Baltimore Cake, let’s take a closer look at what this cake is all about. Lady Baltimore Cake is a classic Southern cake that dates back to the early 1900s.
It’s a light and fluffy white cake that’s typically filled with a mixture of chopped fruits and nuts, such as figs, raisins, and pecans. The cake is then frosted with a fluffy boiled frosting that’s made with egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar.
Lady Baltimore Cake Ingredients
To make a delicious Lady Baltimore Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Cake flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Egg whites
- Whole milk
- Vanilla extract
- Finely chopped raisins, figs, and pecans
For the frosting, you’ll need:
- Granulated sugar
- Water
- Egg whites
- Cream of tartar
- Vanilla extract
How Long Does Lady Baltimore Cake Last?
Now, let’s get to the main question: how long does Lady Baltimore Cake last? The answer, of course, depends on how you store it. If you store the cake properly, it can last for up to five days.
Room Temperature
At room temperature, Lady Baltimore Cake will last for about two to three days. If you plan to eat the cake within this time frame, you can simply cover it with a cake dome or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Refrigerator
If you want to extend the shelf life of your Lady Baltimore Cake, you can store it in the refrigerator. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and it will last for up to five days.
Freezer
If you don’t plan to eat your Lady Baltimore Cake within five days, you can also freeze it. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and it will last for up to three months in the freezer.
How to Store Lady Baltimore Cake
Now that you know how long Lady Baltimore Cake lasts, let’s talk about how to store it properly.
Room Temperature
If you plan to eat your Lady Baltimore Cake within two to three days, you can store it at room temperature. Simply cover the cake with a cake dome or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Refrigerator
If you want to store your Lady Baltimore Cake for up to five days, you can store it in the refrigerator. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer
If you want to freeze your Lady Baltimore Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Make sure the cake is completely cooled before wrapping it, and try to remove as much air as possible from the packaging. When you’re ready to eat the cake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Tips for Preserving Lady Baltimore Cake
Here are some additional tips for preserving your Lady Baltimore Cake:
- Don’t frost the cake until you’re ready to serve it. This will help prevent the cake from getting soggy or drying out.
- If you plan to transport the cake, it’s best to store it in an airtight container or cake carrier to prevent it from getting damaged.
- If you’re storing the cake in the refrigerator or freezer, make sure to label it with the date so you know when it was made and how long it’s been stored.
- Before storing the cake, make sure it’s completely cooled to room temperature. Storing a warm cake can cause condensation, which can make the cake soggy.
FAQs
It’s not recommended to freeze Lady Baltimore Cake with the frosting on, as it can affect the texture and quality of the cake. It’s best to freeze the cake without the frosting, and then frost it once it’s thawed.
It’s important to wrap Lady Baltimore Cake before storing it in the fridge, as this will help prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
It’s not recommended to store Lady Baltimore Cake at room temperature for more than three days, as this can increase the risk of spoilage and foodborne illness.
If your Lady Baltimore Cake has a sour or off smell, or if it appears moldy or discolored, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Yes, you can experiment with different fruit and nut combinations in Lady Baltimore Cake to create your own unique flavor profile. Just make sure to finely chop the ingredients so they blend well with the cake batter.
Conclusion
Lady Baltimore Cake is a delicious and delicate dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat. With proper storage techniques, you can enjoy this cake for up to five days at room temperature or up to three months in the freezer.
Make sure to follow the tips above to preserve the cake’s light and fluffy texture, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different fruit and nut combinations to create your own unique twist on this classic Southern dessert.
