The history of cakes date back to the thirteenth century. Back then these cakes were similar to bread and they were not so appealing too but as the time changes the bakers started putting in more efforts in creating better cakes which are appealing. After a lot of cakes and recipes comes the tasty red velvet cake which is perfect in all the ways. This cake indeed has a fascinating history that will keep people hooked.
Traditional Red Velvet Cake
To understand how this red velvet cake is cooked, you must go back in time. These velvet cakes first came into existence back in Victorian Era. In 1800s, these cakes have attained huge popularity and were called as luxury cakes. The people usually called these velvet cakes “Velvet” due to the soft texture that it offers. It was a fancy dessert that rich people served during events and dinners.
Adding cocoa into the flour will aid in breaking down the flour. When cocoa is mixed with flour, it becomes soft and the cakes get a velvety texture. The red color comes due to the combination of cocoa and flour, people claim it as a result of chemical reaction.Apart from giving the chocolate flavor, the cake will become softer and fluffy.
Debut Into The Cookbook
Finally in the year of 1930, the red velvet cake was published in a cookbook named “the joy of cooking.” The writer of that cookbook Ima stated that it was her responsibility to provide the cake to readers. As it was published in the book, the cake’s popularity skyrocketed.
World War II
During the World War II, the red velvet cake was provided as food for the soldiers. Both soldiers and civilians were asked to ration off the food supplies and they have included the baking products like sugar and butter in the ration. Back then bakers used beet juice in their cakes. You can still find some recipes with beetroot juice in them. The beet root juice not only makes the cake pretty but they also give it the fluffy and smooth texture too. It works as a filler that keeps cake soft and juicy all the time. The cake won’t go dry and has a longer shelf life.
The red color of cake lured people and they were happy to invest in it although the color didn’t bring in much of a flavor. Till today people love adding this cake to their menu and as the price of red velvet cake is a bit pricey, they feel it as a statement maker.
Credits Go To
There are so many people and theories that states that they deserve the credits. The Adams Extract company takes the credit for the cake and says that they are the one who brought into existence. This company has made a fortune by selling the red food coloring. Although there are lot of theories, it is still unknown about whom we should give credit.
The red velvet cake was a status symbol for a long time and now because of its taste, it has evolved as one of the best cakes out there.
