The Classic "Maas Brothers" Wedding Cake Recipe

"Maas Brothers was a Department store franchise in FL; and, their restaurants had some really special signature dishes. In Sarasota, they had what was called 'The Suncoast Restaurant.' This was their classic cake recipe (or wedding cake). On vacation in FL, before moving here, Mom and I would always set one day aside to have a late lunch at Maas Brothers; and we always split of piece of this cake. It was delicious, rich, and decadent. These days, I am not much into sweets; however, it is always a favorite with friends. A post recently on facebook reminded me of this classic recipe, which I haven't made in 3 or 4 years. But, I thought I would post, because it is definitely worth posting. It was their original Wedding Cake recipe. Even though the prep time and cook time is not very long. The cake, does take some time to put together."

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Cake ... In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla on medium high to high speed until creamy. Slowly add the sugar; and, beat until the mix is thick/creamy, and is a light yellow color. Mix the dry ingredients into another bowl (the flour, baking powder, and salt, and whisk to combine); then, slowly add to the wet mixture. Beat another minute or two until combined; and, the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 2

Bake ... I like to line 2 cake pans, with parchment paper; then, grease and flour - but that isn't necessary. It just ensures that your cake will NOT stick; and, it is something I always do. Bake on the middle shelf, at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes until firm. When you lightly touch the cake in the center, it should spring back. Also, you can insert a knife in the center - and if comes out clean, it is done. Remove from the oven, and cool for 10 minutes in the pan, than flip; and transfer to a cake rack or wire rack to cool. Once cool, cut each cake horizontally in half. You want 4 thin layers for this cake.

Step 3

TIP: The cake layers can be made ahead, frozen; and then, cut in half. I usually do this, as they are easier to cut when frozen. But, if you are comfortable with baking; this is probably not necessary.

Step 4

Whipped Cream ... Add the heavy or whipping cream and sugar to a small bowl, and whip on high speed, until you have whipped cream. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 5

Cream Filling ... In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth on medium speed. Add in the sour cream, nuts, coconut, dates, cherries, and chocolate, and beat on low speed, just a few seconds to combine. Then fold in 1/2 of the whipped cream by hand.

Step 6

Cake ... Top the first layer with 1/4 of the filling; then continue to add and frost all four layers. Use the remaining whipped cream to frost the sides of the cake. Refrigerate until ready to serve.