Reese Witherspoon’s fame extends beyond acting and business into the realm of Southern cuisine, notably her grandmother Dorothea Draper’s sour cream cake. This recipe, featured in Witherspoon’s cookbook Whiskey in a Teacup, has gained attention for its simplicity and taste. This article provides a practical review, including tips for optimal results.
The Recipe: Straightforward but Needs Adjustment
The original recipe calls for standard baking ingredients: flour, sugar, butter, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. The process involves sifting dry ingredients, creaming butter and sugar, alternating wet and dry components, and baking in two 9-inch pans. The praline frosting requires melting butter, boiling with cream and brown sugar, then beating in powdered sugar and vanilla.
The cake itself is notably moist with a strong vanilla flavor. However, the frosting quantity in the original recipe is insufficient for a generous layer cake. The cooked frosting, while flavorful (nutty from the browned sugar), sets quickly and lacks the fluffy consistency of a traditional buttercream, making it difficult to spread evenly.
Reviewer’s Notes: Flavorful, but Frosting Falls Short
The cake layers bake tall, promising a showstopping final product. The taste is excellent, but the thin frosting layer between the tiers is a disappointment. The recipe yields just enough frosting to cover the exterior, leaving a bare, unappealing finish.
To improve the outcome, increase the frosting recipe by at least 50%. This ensures a thicker filling and more even coverage. The cake’s moist texture and vanilla flavor are delightful, but the frosting is the weak link in the original instructions.
Three Pro Tips for Success
- Level the Layers: Sour cream cakes tend to dome during baking. Use a serrated knife to trim the tops of each cooled layer for even stacking.
- Time the Frosting Carefully: The cooked praline frosting sets quickly. Make it only after the cakes are fully cooled to ensure smooth application.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerated for up to four days.
This Southern staple remains a solid dessert choice despite the frosting shortcomings. With a simple adjustment, it can achieve the showstopping appeal it promises.
