Election Day Cake

Back in the late 1700s, Election Day was second only to Thanksgiving, and celebrated with parades, balls, parties and lots of cake. Election Day Cake was created, as a sweet confection that was spiced fruitcake or plum cake, spiked with brandy traditionally served the night before Election Day, in order to help voters sustain their energy, as many had to travel very long distances to get to the polls. It was known to be quite dense (weighing up to 10 pounds) and because of that, it was very filling. 

Here is the recipe:

Election Day Cake

Makes one 10-inch cake

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 1/2 cups dried fruit, including cranberries, golden raisins, and blueberries
• 1/2 cup American whisky
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 package (1/4 ounce) rapid-rise yeast
• 1 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour, sifted
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground clove
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 pound (1 stick) soft unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar

1. Combine 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar with the water in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium-high heat until sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside.

This cake features dried blueberries, cranberries and golden rasins. It's patriotic colors are sure to please -- no matter which candidate you will be voting for. Make it for Election Night parties with your families and friends as well!

Darien resident Janine Vairo is the founder of PartyStyle Box. She can be reached at partystylebox@gmail.com.