Meet Sherry. No, she's not my mom. Mom graduated college in 1950 with a degree in Home Economics. One would think that degree covered culinary skills, including baking. The only dish mom has ever cooked, and still does to this day, is meatloaf. And this loaf. Actually this is supposed to be a wine "cake", baked in a traditional bundt pan. I'm improvising rather poorly for Di's Autumn Roundup. And did I mention it's not even as a "homemade" cake? Get ready for those shocking words, Duncan Hines and Jell-O Pudding. But you know, this is exceptionally good - that's where Sherry comes in.
I'd put this cake in the "boozy" category. For it begs almost a cupful of sherry. In addition, mom puts a tablespoon (yes, a tablespoon) of nutmeg. And don't skimp, for this spice pairs nicely with the sherry.
I'm certain mom started making this cake in the "cake mix madness" era. Such a boon to homemakers - a perfect cake, every time, guaranteed - thanks to Betty and Duncan. Except when you don't follow mom's directions and, like a fool, think the batter will fit into one loaf pan, hoping it won't runneth over in the oven (which it did). But that's the beauty of cake mixes. They're practically fool proof. Practically. . .
I'm certain mom started making this cake in the "cake mix madness" era. Such a boon to homemakers - a perfect cake, every time, guaranteed - thanks to Betty and Duncan. Except when you don't follow mom's directions and, like a fool, think the batter will fit into one loaf pan, hoping it won't runneth over in the oven (which it did). But that's the beauty of cake mixes. They're practically fool proof. Practically. . .
creation.
– mike
8 Comments:
You said "box cake mix" ... I'm telling. :-)
This recipe reminds me of some of the old cake recipes that are found in the recipe booklets that were published by Betty Crocker. It does sound good!
One of those dreaded moments for any baker is when you smell that "cake has dripped into the bottom of the oven" scent.
I love nutmeg, but I'm still trying to wrap my head around the idea of adding a full tablespoon of it to anything. =) I haven't purchased a cake mix in forever, but I think I'm going to have to add it to next week's shopping list. Thanks for baking along!
(ok, and I have to give you a hard time--it's Diana or Di, not Diane =P )
You had me at sherry, almost lost me at cake mix, and confounded me at 1 tablespoon nutmeg. This one has me curious enough that I might just have to try it. Great post!
Mike, you are just too funny. I love this post and I know your mom would! :) A whole tablespoon of nutmeg?! Wow! I am going to try this one. Your little recipe card and Di's autumn event graphics are precious!
Great post, Mike! I always enjoy reading what you have to say. And nice pics, too!
I love this post. I secretly love boxed cake mix too! Thanks for this post.
THATS a lot of nutmeg. Bet it is wonderful in this cake.
I always have a mix **gasp** in the cabinet just in case of fire, flood, eh.... hurricane!!
This was my mom's favorite cake recipe and I remember it was very good!
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