“Qu’ils mangent de la brioche!” or, “Let them eat cake!” Perhaps the most famous quote about cake ever were the words of a great French princess. Typically attributed to Marie Antoinette herself upon being informed that the peasants were so poor that they had no bread to eat during one of the famines that occurred in France during the reign of her husband, Louis XVI.
Needless to say, the ignorance and arrogance of that disdainful statement did not win either Marie Antoinette or her husband any respect or sympathy from their people, who then proceeded to behead both of them during the French Revolution!
However, none of this changes the fact that cake is arguably one of the most delicious baked goods that humans have ever made to eat, and its numerous varieties continue to astound every cake fan. For that reason, it is obvious that cake is more than deserving of its own little holiday.
The history of cake dates back to ancient times, and the first cakes are thought to have been made in Ancient Greece and Egypt. These first cakes were rather heavy and flat and were eaten at the end of a meal with nuts and honey.
Nowadays, this type of cake has evolved into baklava, a traditional Greek dessert and a must-try for any fan of sweet stickiness. In later years the ancient Romans also created their own version of this sweet treat, which was rather creamy and rich. However, like in many cultures around the world, this cake was often reserved for the gods and was offered to them at their temples as a sign of respect, love, and reverence.
The Oxford English Dictionary traces the English word cake back to the 13th century. During the Great Depression, it was necessary to provide easy, relatively cheap food to millions of Americans who were living in poverty, and the boxed cake mix was born. The idea turned out to be pure gold, as millions of housewives all over the United States took advantage of this way to make their lives easier.
Cakes started being used to celebrate birthdays in 19th century Western Europe and eventually earned their candles on top. But cakes are also a delightful addition to a variety of other meals and functions, from a simple family dessert to a huge catered party. Whether chocolate or black forest, angel food or the pineapple upside-down version, pretty much everyone enjoys a slice of cake.
And now, National Cake Day is celebrated throughout the world!
