Kentucky Sweets

Kentuckians from frontiersmen to modern-day pastry chefs have put their marks on the state’s baking history. Residents of the commonwealth have plenty of rich recipes and time-honored traditions, like pulling parties, where folks would gather to make taffy. Stack cakes originated from Appalachian weddings, where guests would each offer a layer of cake to the bride and groom, who then added the jam to hold the creation together. The decadent Modjeska confection gets its name from a Victorian-era candy maker’s crush on a popular Polish actress. Join author Sarah Baird on a whirlwind trip—complete with recipes—that examines the delectable history of unique Kentucky treats from pawpaws to chocolate gravy.