The Smithsonian Magazine writes:

Slide over pie, it is National Cake Day when cake takes center stage as the dessert of choice.
On most birthdays, the cake is topped with candles no matter their age. Cake is served at showers, weddings, retirements and anniversaries, to name but a few. Add ice cream, and you have America’s two top favorite desserts in the same dish!
Cakes typically contain a combination of flour, sugar, eggs, and butter or oil. Additionally, some variety of liquid, such as milk or water, creates a batter. A leavening agent such as yeast or baking powder helps the cake rise. Flavorful ingredients are often added, for example, chopped nuts, fresh, candied or dried fruit, fruit purees, or extracts. Though we commonly think of cake with frosting or icing, many cakes can be enjoyed with just fruit or other toppings.
Here is Hattingdon modeling two of her birthday cake hats. Delicious! There are more of course. Vivian is rarely satisfied with making just one or two of something.

Who can resist chocolate?

Use #NationalCakeDay on social media.
The Hill Sisters
Have you heard of the mostly unknown sisters behind the song “Happy Birthday to You” — they are Mildred and Patty Hill.
It is a fascinating and sometimes tangled story. We have read quite a few writings on it, and recommend reading the Smithonian’s first. Read it at The Forgotten Sisters Behind ‘Happy Birthday’ at Smithonian Magazine.
Updated October 2024.






