It could easily be argued that no one does dessert quite like the southern U.S. states. There's just something about dessert culture in the lower 48 that brings people together and exudes southern history, and this is evident in many of the recipes that have lasted decades. In Alabama, particularly, there are some sweets that visitors simply can't pass up during their visit - and they're well worth the potential cavities.
From cakes to pies, Alabama is known for having some of the most delicious southern treats in the country. After all, the state even has its own cake - and if that's not serious when it comes to sweet treats, then we're not sure what is.
The next time one is visiting the state of Alabama, here's what should be ordered after dinner.
The Official State Cake
Not only is this cake the official cake of the state of Alabama, but it also has a long history to go with its very well-recognized title. The Lane Cake, also known as the Drive Cake, has been an iconic staple in the state for decades... or, at least, ever since 1898. The cake was created by a woman named Emma Rylander during the same year, and the recipe began as an entry into the county fair baking competition. Originally, Rylander nicknamed the cake 'Prize Cake' but later changed the name when it appeared in her cookbook, Some Good Things to Eat.
- Fun Fact: Lane cake was mentioned in Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird after it was made by neighbor Maude Atkinson for the Finch family (described by Scout).
Those planning on seeking out the Lane Cake while in Alabama should know that this is no ordinary cake. Not only does it have a delicious filling of frosting mixed with coconut, pecans, raisins, and bourbon, but it towers at a whopping four layers. To say that this cake is intimidating is an understatement, but that makes it all the more satisfying when taking that first initial bite. The cake itself is a simple sponge and manages to perfectly balance the abundantly sweet flavor of its filling. Commonly found at gatherings in the South, it can also be found fairly easily throughout Alabama's most popular bakeries, as well. When in doubt, it might even appear on the menu of local restaurants, as well.
- Tip: It's said that the cake improves as it sits, likely due to the sheer amount of bourbon that's used in the filling.
Additional Alabama Sweets
That's not to say that the Lane Cake is the only sweet treat coming out of the state of Alabama. As is traditional with many southern states, each one has its own unique after-dinner dishes that have everyone looking forward to dessert. Here are some more honorable mentions for those who might be visiting.
Sweet Potato Pie
Simple, sweet, and exquisite are three ways to describe Alabama's official state pie. If the state has an official state cake then it was only natural that a pie would also be on the menu, and sweet potato pie is it. While traditionally made for Thanksgiving and other end-of-the-year holidays, in Alabama, this is one pie that's baked all year round. It's so popular, in fact, that there have been several country songs that include lyrics singing a tribute to the iconic dessert.
A close runner-up to the official state pie is pecan pie since the pecan is the official state nut of Alabama. With that being said, either one of these pies would make a worthy dessert following a traditional southern meal... or, maybe even both!
Traditional Cherry Sundae
It only makes sense that a state so close to the equator would need something sweet and icy in order to cool down, and the answer to that, of course, is ice cream. One of the most traditional forms of this comes in the shape of a cherry sundae, and it's something that's easily found throughout Alabama. Complete with hot fudge and a maraschino cherry on top!
Moon Pies
Some might know this one as a traditional southern dessert and in Alabama, they're a definite staple. The discrepancy with moon pies is that they can also be eaten as a quick snack, which makes them the perfect sweet treat to have any time of the day, not just for dessert.
With a sweet, chewy marshmallow center squashed between two crunchy graham crackers, and an outer coating of milk chocolate, there's nothing not to love. It's practically a mess-free s'mores, which is perfect for a state that's warm almost year-round.