Pennsylvania, a state steeped in history and known for its diverse culinary scene, boasts a variety of iconic foods. From the Philly cheesesteak to scrapple, the Keystone State offers a taste of regional delights. But what about dessert? What sweet treat represents Pennsylvania’s official confection? While many might assume it’s a classic such as shoofly pie, the answer might surprise you: Pennsylvania does not have an official state cake. However, the chocolate chip cookie has been officially named Pennsylvania’s official state cookie in 2024, and it is often baked in cake form.
The Curious Case of Pennsylvania’s Lack of a State Cake
Despite the state’s rich culinary heritage, Pennsylvania has never officially designated a state cake. Many states have chosen representative desserts, often reflecting local ingredients or historical significance. For example, Delaware boasts peach pie, a nod to its abundant peach orchards, and Massachusetts claims Boston cream pie as its own. So, why the absence of a state cake in Pennsylvania?
The reasons are likely multifaceted. Perhaps the diverse culinary landscape makes it challenging to agree on a single representative cake. Or maybe the focus has been on other iconic foods that more readily define Pennsylvania’s culinary identity. Whatever the cause, the absence of a state cake doesn’t mean Pennsylvania lacks delicious desserts.
The Rise of the Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
While Pennsylvania doesn’t have a formal state cake, the chocolate chip cookie cake enjoys immense popularity. The association of the chocolate chip cookie with the state stems from its invention in Massachusetts. Ruth Graves Wakefield created the original chocolate chip cookie at the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts, in the 1930s. The story goes that she was attempting to make chocolate butterscotch cookies but, lacking baker’s chocolate, substituted chopped pieces of a Nestle chocolate bar. The semi-melted chocolate pieces transformed the baking world.
However, the chocolate chip cookie cake has evolved into a widespread dessert. Many bakeries across Pennsylvania offer their versions of the chocolate chip cookie cake. The popularity of the treat may lead people to mistakenly believe that it is Pennsylvania’s state cake.
A Culinary Staple Baked in Cake Form
The chocolate chip cookie cake takes the classic cookie and elevates it into a shareable dessert. It’s essentially a giant chocolate chip cookie, often decorated with frosting and other toppings. Its simplicity and universal appeal make it a crowd-pleaser.
Its versatility makes it a popular choice for birthdays, celebrations, and casual gatherings. Whether homemade or purchased from a bakery, the chocolate chip cookie cake holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many Pennsylvanians.
Regional Variations and Bakery Specialties
Across Pennsylvania, variations of the chocolate chip cookie cake abound. Some bakeries add nuts, pretzels, or other candies to the mix. Others experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, or peanut butter chips. Frosting styles also vary, ranging from simple buttercream to elaborate chocolate ganache.
Many local bakeries are known for their unique takes on the cookie cake. These small businesses often use family recipes and high-quality ingredients, creating a truly memorable treat.
Exploring Other Potential Pennsylvania State Cake Candidates
While the chocolate chip cookie cake is beloved, other desserts have a strong claim to Pennsylvania’s culinary identity. Exploring these options provides a deeper appreciation for the state’s diverse baking traditions.
Shoofly Pie: A Pennsylvania Dutch Classic
Perhaps the most well-known Pennsylvania dessert is shoofly pie. This molasses-based pie originated in the Pennsylvania Dutch region and is a symbol of the area’s culinary heritage. The name “shoofly” is believed to have come from the need to shoo flies away from the sweet molasses filling as it cooled.
Shoofly pie is traditionally made with a crumb topping and a sweet, gooey filling. It comes in two main variations: wet-bottom and dry-bottom. Wet-bottom pies have a more liquid filling, while dry-bottom pies are denser. While not a cake, its historical significance and regional popularity make it a strong contender for a state dessert.
Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Cake: A Simple and Delicious Treat
Another contender is the Pennsylvania Dutch apple cake. This cake is typically a simple, moist cake filled with apples and spices, often topped with a streusel topping. It’s a comforting and flavorful dessert that reflects the area’s agricultural abundance.
Unlike more elaborate cakes, the Pennsylvania Dutch apple cake emphasizes simplicity and fresh ingredients. It’s a testament to the resourcefulness and culinary ingenuity of the Pennsylvania Dutch community.
Whoopie Pies: A Statewide Favorite
Whoopie pies, consisting of two soft cake-like cookies sandwiched together with a creamy filling, are another dessert with roots in Pennsylvania. The Amish community is often credited with their creation. While the chocolate chip cookie cake and shoofly pie compete for the position of Pennsylvania’s favorite desserts, whoopie pies also have a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many Pennsylvanians.
The classic whoopie pie features chocolate cakes and a vanilla cream filling, but variations abound, including pumpkin, peanut butter, and red velvet. This handheld treat is a popular choice at farmers’ markets, bakeries, and festivals throughout the state.
Other Cakes and Desserts Worth Mentioning
Numerous other desserts could potentially represent Pennsylvania. These include:
- Lemon sponge cake
- Strawberry pretzel salad
These lesser-known treats showcase the diversity of Pennsylvania’s culinary landscape.
The Significance of State Symbols
Why do states designate official symbols? State symbols, including state birds, flowers, trees, and even foods, serve to represent a state’s unique identity, history, and culture. They can promote tourism, educate citizens, and foster a sense of pride in the state.
By officially recognizing a state cake, Pennsylvania could further celebrate its culinary heritage and attract visitors interested in experiencing its local flavors. A state cake could also become a symbol of unity, representing the shared love of a particular dessert across the state.
The Future of Pennsylvania’s State Cake
While Pennsylvania currently lacks a state cake, the possibility remains open for future designation. Perhaps a grassroots movement will emerge, advocating for a particular dessert. Or maybe the state legislature will initiate a formal process to select a representative cake.
Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: Pennsylvania boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene with a wealth of delicious desserts to choose from. While the chocolate chip cookie cake currently stands as a popular, albeit unofficial, contender, the story of Pennsylvania’s state cake is far from over.
The enduring popularity of the chocolate chip cookie, especially when baked into a cake, highlights the enduring appeal of simple, comforting desserts. Its versatility and widespread availability make it a beloved treat across Pennsylvania and beyond. While it may not be the official state cake, it undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many Pennsylvanians.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake Recipe
Here’s a simple chocolate chip cookie cake recipe that you can make at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the chocolate chips.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared cake pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate as desired with frosting, sprinkles, or extra chocolate chips.
This recipe is a great starting point. You can customize it by adding nuts, pretzels, or different types of chocolate chips. Enjoy!
Conclusion
Although Pennsylvania doesn’t have an official state cake, the chocolate chip cookie cake is beloved by many. Its popularity and simplicity make it a great option for celebrations. The state’s rich culinary history means there are many other potential state cakes.
What exactly is Pennsylvania’s official state cake?
Pennsylvania does not officially have a designated “state cake.” While various sources might suggest the chocolate chip cookie or the chocolate chip cookie cake, these are not officially recognized by the Pennsylvania state government as such. Many states have official symbols, including state flowers, birds, and even state foods, but Pennsylvania has not codified a state cake into law.
Therefore, any claim of a specific cake holding the title of Pennsylvania’s official state cake is inaccurate. This distinction is important to note because official symbols are formally recognized through legislation and carry a certain level of historical or cultural significance as determined by the state. While Pennsylvanians may have personal favorites or regional specialties, there is no officially recognized state cake for the Commonwealth.
Why is the chocolate chip cookie cake often associated with Pennsylvania?
The association of the chocolate chip cookie cake with Pennsylvania stems from the invention of the chocolate chip cookie itself in the state. Ruth Graves Wakefield, the owner of the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts, is credited with inventing the chocolate chip cookie in the 1930s. However, the popularity of the Toll House cookie spread rapidly, and Pennsylvania became a significant center for its production and consumption, leading to the association.
Because the chocolate chip cookie is so beloved and Pennsylvania became a hub for its commercial production, it’s a logical, though unofficial, extension to imagine a larger-format version, the chocolate chip cookie cake, being linked to the state. Though not a state symbol, the connection resonates due to the cookie’s strong roots in American baking and Pennsylvania’s role in its widespread adoption and enjoyment.
Is there a movement to make the chocolate chip cookie cake the official state cake of Pennsylvania?
Currently, there is no significant or widely reported legislative movement to officially designate the chocolate chip cookie cake as the state cake of Pennsylvania. While individual citizens or organizations may express their fondness for the dessert and its association with the state, there hasn’t been a formal effort to lobby for its official recognition. The process to designate state symbols typically involves legislative proposals, committee reviews, and ultimately, a vote by the state legislature and approval by the Governor.
Given the lack of widespread public discourse or active political advocacy, it seems unlikely that the chocolate chip cookie cake will become Pennsylvania’s official state cake anytime soon. State symbols often reflect deep-seated historical or cultural significance, and while the cookie cake is popular, it may not possess the same level of gravitas as other potential candidates for such a designation.
What other foods are commonly associated with Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is well-known for a variety of culinary delights, many of which hold significant cultural and historical importance. The state is famous for its cheesesteaks, hoagies, and soft pretzels, particularly within the Philadelphia area. These iconic foods are not only popular among locals but also attract tourists eager to experience authentic Pennsylvania cuisine.
Beyond these staples, Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine is another significant aspect of the state’s food culture. This includes dishes like scrapple, shoofly pie, and chow-chow, reflecting the traditions of the Pennsylvania German community. Additionally, the state is a major producer of mushrooms and apples, both of which feature prominently in local cuisine.
What are some variations of the chocolate chip cookie cake popular in Pennsylvania?
While a standard chocolate chip cookie cake typically involves a large, flat cookie studded with chocolate chips, regional variations and personal preferences can lead to interesting modifications. Some bakeries might offer frosting on their cookie cakes, often vanilla or chocolate buttercream, adding an extra layer of sweetness and decoration. Others might incorporate different types of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate, to cater to diverse tastes.
Furthermore, Pennsylvania’s rich agricultural heritage can inspire unique additions to the cookie cake. Local fruits, such as apples or berries, might be incorporated into the batter or used as toppings, creating a seasonal twist on the classic dessert. Nuts, like walnuts or pecans, are also common additions, providing textural contrast and enhancing the flavor profile.
How can I find the best chocolate chip cookie cake in Pennsylvania?
Finding the “best” chocolate chip cookie cake is subjective and depends on personal preferences. One approach is to research local bakeries and dessert shops in Pennsylvania, reading online reviews and looking for establishments with a strong reputation for their baked goods. Websites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and local food blogs can offer valuable insights and recommendations from other customers.
Another strategy is to ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who live in or have visited Pennsylvania. Word-of-mouth referrals can often lead to hidden gems and local favorites that might not be widely advertised. Visiting farmers’ markets or local festivals can also provide opportunities to sample cookie cakes from different vendors and discover new favorites.
Where can I learn more about Pennsylvania’s state symbols and official designations?
The official source for information regarding Pennsylvania’s state symbols and official designations is the Pennsylvania General Assembly’s website. This website contains the official statutes and laws of the Commonwealth, including any legislation pertaining to state symbols such as the state flower, tree, or animal. Searching the General Assembly’s website for “state symbols” or “official designations” will provide access to relevant documents.
Additionally, the Pennsylvania Department of State’s website may offer informative resources about state symbols and their historical significance. Governmental agencies often maintain webpages dedicated to educating the public about the state’s heritage and cultural identity. Consulting these official sources will ensure you have accurate and up-to-date information regarding Pennsylvania’s official symbols.