Baking with vintage molds brings a unique charm to our kitchen, and the Griswold Lamb Cake Mold is a perfect example. This classic cast iron mold dates back to the early 1900s and adds a nostalgic touch to any celebration, especially around Easter. Using this mold, we can create a beautifully detailed lamb cake that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Our Griswold Lamb Cake Mold recipe combines traditional flavors with a simple baking process, making it accessible for both seasoned bakers and beginners. We’ll guide you through every step to ensure your cake comes out perfectly shaped and delicious. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or add a special centerpiece to your holiday table, this recipe will help you bring a bit of history and sweetness into your home.
Ingredients
To bring our Griswold Lamb Cake Mold to life, we will need carefully selected ingredients that balance flavor and texture perfectly. Below, we break down everything needed to create this vintage-inspired masterpiece.
Cake Ingredients
We recommend using classic cake ingredients that bake up light and moist, ideal for capturing every detail of the lamb mold.
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | Sifted |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ¾ cups | |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Softened |
| Large eggs | 4 | Room temperature |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Room temperature |
| Baking powder | 2 ½ teaspoons | |
| Pure vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
Frosting Ingredients
The frosting is key to highlighting the beautiful contours of our lamb cake. We suggest a silky, smooth buttercream that is easy to pipe and decorate.
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Softened |
| Powdered sugar | 4 cups | Sifted |
| Whole milk | 2-3 tablespoons | Adjust for desired consistency |
| Pure vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | |
| Almond extract | ½ teaspoon | Optional, adds subtle depth |
Decoration Supplies
To make the Griswold Lamb Cake truly stand out on your table, we gather simple decorations that complement the nostalgic charm without overpowering the design.
- Piping bags with small round and star tips
- Food-safe paintbrush (for detailed touches)
- Pastel-colored sprinkles or edible pearls
- Fresh edible flowers or mint leaves (for garnish)
- Powdered sugar (for a delicate dusting finish)
Each of these items supports precision and creativity as we decorate our vintage lamb cake mold to perfection.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Griswold Lamb Cake we need precise and reliable equipment. Using the right tools ensures our cake matches the charm and detail of the vintage mold while baking evenly and decorating beautifully.
Griswold Lamb Cake Mold
The centerpiece of our recipe is the Griswold Lamb Cake Mold. This antique cast iron mold is essential for capturing the intricate lamb design that defines this cake. Here’s what we need to know:
- Material: Cast iron for even heat distribution
- Size: Approximately 8 to 10 inches in length, ideal for serving
- Preparation: Must be thoroughly cleaned, seasoned with butter or vegetable shortening, and dusted with flour to guarantee non-stick release
- Handle: Some molds have a latch to secure the mold halves; ensure it locks tightly before filling
“The detail in the mold’s etching is what gives our lamb cake that vintage allure. Treating the mold carefully preserves its finish and enhances the cake’s shape.”
Mixing Bowls and Tools
We rely on sturdy tools for crafting the batter and frosting that brings the lamb cake to life. Here’s what we recommend:
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combine dry and wet ingredients | Preferably non-reactive |
| Medium Mixing Bowl | Preparing frosting or softer mixes | Glass or metal recommended |
| Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer | Mix ingredients thoroughly | Ensures smooth and fluffy batter |
| Spatula | Scrape bowls and fold batter | Silicone for flexibility |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient quantification | Use clear, standardized sets |
Keeping these tools clean and ready helps us maintain consistency and ease throughout the recipe steps.
Baking Pan and Oven Setup
Optimal baking conditions are crucial for the Griswold Lamb Cake to come out perfect in texture and form.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) for even baking
- Rack Position: Place the mold on the middle rack to ensure balanced heat exposure
- Baking Surface: Use a sturdy baking sheet under the mold to catch any drips and aid in easy handling
- Cooling Rack: Prepare a wire cooling rack where the mold can be inverted post-bake for easy cake release
“Consistent oven temperature and careful placement prevent overbaking delicate details and ensure our lamb cake’s moist crumb.”
With the right equipment, we set the foundation to create a lamb cake that celebrates tradition and craftsmanship.
Preparation
To ensure our Griswold Lamb Cake Mold baking experience is seamless and successful, we must focus on careful preparation steps. These foundational tasks set the stage for a perfectly shaped and delicious lamb cake.
Preparing the Griswold Lamb Cake Mold
Before we begin mixing ingredients, it is crucial to prepare the mold properly. The Griswold Lamb Cake Mold is crafted from cast iron, renowned for its excellent heat retention and even baking properties. However, this mold requires specific care.
- Inspect the mold: Check for any remnants from previous bakes. Since it’s vintage, gently remove any rust spots or residue with a fine steel wool pad.
- Season the mold: Lightly coat the inside with a thin layer of vegetable shortening or melted butter. This seasoning prevents sticking and enhances the mold’s non-stick properties.
- Let it sit: Allow the coating to absorb for about 10 minutes at room temperature before proceeding to the next preparation step.
Tip: The cast iron’s porous surface benefits from regular seasoning to maintain its vintage charm and functional integrity.
Preheating the Oven
A perfectly preheated oven guarantees our lamb cake will cook evenly throughout and develop that moist, light crumb we desire.
| Oven Setting Step | Temperature | Rack Position |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat Temperature | 350°F (177°C) | Middle rack, center |
- We turn on the oven to 350°F (177°C), ensuring it reaches this temperature before placing the mold inside.
- Position the oven rack in the middle position to promote consistent heat circulation around the mold, critical for achieving delicate surface details.
Greasing and Flour Dusting the Mold
Properly greasing and dusting the mold is vital to release the cake cleanly and preserve the detailed lamb form.
- Using a pastry brush, apply a generous and even layer of softened butter or vegetable shortening inside every contour and crevice of the mold.
- Next, sprinkle 2 to 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the greased surface.
- Tilt and tap the mold gently to distribute the flour evenly, ensuring each nook receives a thin flour coating.
- Discard any excess flour by inverting the mold and tapping it lightly.
Reminder: This step is the difference between a cake that unmolds beautifully and one that sticks or crumbles, so take your time here.
Following these preparation steps with care primes us for filling the mold with batter and baking our Griswold Lamb Cake to perfection.
Making the Cake Batter
Crafting the perfect cake batter is essential for our Griswold Lamb Cake Mold to produce a moist, tender, and flavorful cake. We’ll carefully combine our ingredients to ensure the texture and taste honor the vintage charm of this classic bake.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
We start by blending all the dry components to guarantee even distribution and avoid clumps.
- Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Actions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Continue whisking until the mixture is uniform and light to the touch.
- Set the dry mix aside while we prepare the wet ingredients.
| Dry Ingredients | Measurement |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Baking powder | 2 ½ tsp |
| Baking soda | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
Combining Wet Ingredients
Next, attention shifts to the wet ingredients that contribute flavor and moisture.
- Ingredients:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
Steps:
- Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy — about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the buttermilk and dry ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry mix.
Folding Ingredients Together
To maintain the cake’s light, tender crumb, we finish by carefully folding the mixtures.
Steps:
- Pour half of the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Use a large spatula to gently fold the flour in, making sweeping motions from the bottom of the bowl upwards.
- Add half of the buttermilk, continuing to fold gently.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dry ingredients and buttermilk.
- Fold only until combined; avoid overmixing to prevent a dense cake.
“Folding the batter carefully ensures the preservation of the airiness, which is crucial for achieving the perfect rise and delicate crumb the Griswold Lamb Cake deserves.”
The batter should be smooth, thick, and pourable, ready to be poured into our prepared Griswold Lamb Cake Mold without losing detail or texture.
Baking the Cake
Baking the Griswold Lamb Cake requires mindful attention to detail to preserve its intricate design and achieve a moist tender crumb. Let’s walk through the essential steps to bake this vintage masterpiece perfectly.
Pouring Batter Into the Mold
Once our batter is smooth and ready we carefully pour it into the prepared Griswold Lamb Cake Mold.
- Fill the mold about 2/3 full to leave room for rising.
- Use a spatula to gently spread the batter ensuring even distribution especially into the deep crevices of the lamb’s body.
- Avoid overfilling as overflow can obscure the mold’s fine details.
This step sets the foundation for a sharply defined cake shape while maintaining the batter’s delicate structure.
Baking Time and Temperature
The ideal baking temperature is key to achieving a tender cake without compromising the mold’s detail.
| Temperature | Baking Time | Oven Placement |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (177°C) | 40 to 50 minutes | Middle rack for even heat |
- We preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) ensuring it reaches full heat for consistent baking.
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes checking at the 40-minute mark.
- Position the mold on the middle rack to guarantee uniform heat circulation around the cast iron.
By following this schedule we balance the cake’s moistness with a golden exterior.
Checking for Doneness
True doneness ensures a clean release from our vintage mold without sticking or crumbling.
- Insert a toothpick or thin skewer into the thickest part of the lamb.
- If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs we know our cake is perfectly baked.
- Avoid opening the oven door too frequently to prevent temperature drops that can affect rising.
Perfect timing here is crucial so the cake bakes through but stays tender and springy.
Cooling the Cake in the Mold
Proper cooling preserves the cake’s shape and classic lamb details.
- Let the cake cool in the mold for 15 to 20 minutes on a wire rack.
- This resting time allows the cake to firm up slightly making it easier to unmold.
- After cooling carefully invert the mold on the wire rack and gently tap to release the Griswold Lamb Cake.
- If sticking occurs use a small offset spatula gently at edges but avoid scraping the mold.
Cooling in the mold helps retain every charming detail so our cake looks as impressive as it tastes.
Removing the Cake from the Mold
Removing the Griswold Lamb Cake Mold cake gently is crucial to preserving its intricate vintage shape and delicate details. We must approach this step with care and patience to ensure our lamb cake emerges perfectly intact.
Loosening the Cake
First, we begin by carefully loosening the cake edges from the mold. Use a soft, thin-edged spatula or butter knife to gently run along all the crevices between the cake and the mold walls. This prevents the cake from sticking and tearing during removal.
- Work slowly, focusing on the small details, such as the lamb’s ears, paws, and face.
- Avoid scraping too hard which might create cracks or break the cake.
- If the cake feels too cold or tight, allow it to warm slightly at room temperature for 5 minutes to ease release.
Inverting the Mold
Once the edges are fully loosened, it is time to invert the mold to release the cake.
- Place a cooling rack or flat plate over the top of the mold.
- Holding the mold and plate firmly together, flip the mold upside down in one smooth motion.
- Gently tap or shake the mold to encourage the cake to drop onto the surface.
- If the cake remains stuck, carefully wiggle the mold while tapping until the cake loosens.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Loosen cake edges with spatula |
| 2 | Place cooling rack or plate on mold top |
| 3 | Invert mold and rack as one unit |
| 4 | Tap or wiggle mold gently to release cake |
Handling and Cooling Completely
After successfully releasing the cake, handle it with care to preserve its beautiful details.
- Avoid touching delicate features such as the lamb’s nose or legs.
- Leave the cake on the cooling rack allowing air to circulate.
- Let it cool completely at room temperature for at least 1 hour before any frosting or decoration.
- Cooling thoroughly ensures the cake firms up and prevents smudging during decorating.
Frosting and Decorating
Frosting and decorating the Griswold Lamb Cake Mold cake is where its vintage charm truly comes alive. Let’s guide you through steps to create a beautifully frosted lamb that captures every detail and delights your guests.
Preparing the Frosting
We recommend a classic buttercream frosting for a smooth, creamy finish that holds shape well on the lamb’s curves and intricate details. Here’s what we use:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Steps:
- Beat the butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until frosting reaches a thick but spreadable consistency.
- Beat on high for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Tip: For a smooth and vibrant finish, color small portions of the frosting with gel food coloring. For the lamb’s wool, a pure white or ivory color works best.
Applying a Base Coat
The base coat creates the foundation layer for all your decorations. It smooths the cake surface, sealing in crumbs.
Follow these steps:
- Use an offset spatula to spread a thin, even layer of frosting over the entire lamb cake.
- Cover all surfaces including legs, head, and back with a smooth coat.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to firm up the base coat.
This chilling step helps prevent crumb mix-in and makes detailed decorating easier.
Adding Details to the Lamb Shape
Now comes the fun part—bringing the lamb to life using textured and piped details.
- Wool Texture: Use a small star tip (e.g., Wilton #16 or #18) on a piping bag filled with white or ivory frosting. Pipe tight, overlapping stars or rosettes covering the lamb’s body to mimic fluffy wool.
- Facial Features: Switch to a round tip (#3 or #5) for eyes, nostrils, and mouth. Chocolate chips or small black edible pearls work well for eyes if you prefer no frosting here.
- Ears and Legs: Use a flat tip to smooth frosting or a petal tip for shaping ears delicately.
- Neck Bow (optional): Add a pop of color by piping a simple bow beneath the head with a bright frosting color.
Using Additional Decorations
To elevate the vintage look, we suggest subtle and tasteful adornments:
| Decoration | Purpose | Placement |
|---|---|---|
| Powdered sugar dust | Adds soft snowy effect | Over entire cake |
| Edible glitter | Light shimmer for festive appeal | On wool or bow |
| Small pastel candies | Decorative Easter-themed embellishment | Around cake base |
| Fresh mint or herbs | Adds natural green contrast | Near base or bow |
“Adding these final touches will transform the Griswold Lamb Cake Mold cake into a show-stopping centerpiece perfect for Easter celebrations or any spring occasion.”
Remember to handle the cake gently during decorating to preserve the intricate lamb shape we baked with care.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Griswold Lamb Cake Mold Recipe, we want to ensure the presentation and pairing create an inviting experience. Here are some thoughtful serving ideas to complement the vintage charm and delicious flavors of this iconic cake.
Presentation Ideas
Presenting the Griswold Lamb Cake beautifully enhances its nostalgic appeal. Consider these tips:
- Place the cake on a vintage ceramic or wooden platter to echo the early 1900s aesthetic.
- Add a delicate dusting of powdered sugar over the lamb’s wool frosting to simulate a fresh springtime appearance.
- Surround the cake with pastel-colored edible flowers or small candies to amplify its Easter or spring celebration vibe.
- Use piped buttercream details for the eyes, nose, and lamb’s curls to accentuate the exquisite vintage mold features.
- Incorporate a lace doily beneath the cake for an extra touch of elegance and tradition.
- Finish with a small bouquet of fresh herbs like mint or rosemary nearby to infuse subtle green accents.
Pairing with Beverages or Sides
Pairing the cake with complementary drinks and sides enhances the overall festive experience. Here’s what pairs best with the Griswold Lamb Cake:
| Beverage | Description | Serving Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Chamomile or Earl Grey Tea | Light floral and citrus notes balance the buttercream richness | Serve warm in vintage teacups |
| Sparkling Rosé or Prosecco | Light bubbles and a hint of fruitiness refresh the palate | Chill well and serve in flutes |
| Fresh Lemonade | Adds a bright, tart contrast to the sweet cake | Garnish with lemon slices and mint |
| Coffee with Cream | Classic comforting pairing especially for brunch | Serve in elegant coffee cups |
For sides, light and fresh options complement the lamb cake’s soft, buttery flavor:
- Fresh fruit salad with berries and melon adds vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- Soft whipped cream or vanilla yogurt offers an alternate creamy texture.
- A small plate of pastel macarons or meringues provides delicate, complementary sweetness.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to preserve the delicate texture and vintage charm of our Griswold Lamb Cake. Below we outline the best practices to keep your creation fresh and delightful.
How to Store Leftovers
To maintain the cake’s shape and flavor after serving, we recommend the following:
- Wrap the cake gently with plastic wrap. Avoid pressing too hard on the decorations.
- Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or cake dome to prevent drying.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator if you plan to keep it for more than one day.
Note: If your Griswold Lamb Cake is not frosted, wrap it tightly in plastic and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to prevent drying.
Keeping the Cake Fresh
The key to a fresh Griswold Lamb Cake lies in controlling moisture and temperature:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Keep wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, away from heat |
| Refrigeration | 4 to 5 days | Use airtight container to avoid odor absorption |
| Freezing | Up to 1 month | Wrap cake in plastic then foil, thaw in fridge slowly |
“We find that chilling the cake before decorating also improves frosting adherence and overall presentation.”
For the best taste and to keep the intricate details intact, always allow refrigerated cake to come to room temperature before serving. This brings out the full buttery flavor and moist crumb texture characteristic of our vintage-inspired lamb cake.
Conclusion
Baking with the Griswold Lamb Cake Mold brings a unique blend of nostalgia and charm to any celebration. By following the recipe and preparation tips, we can create a cake that’s not only visually stunning but also deliciously moist and flavorful.
This timeless baking experience connects us to tradition while allowing room for creativity in decoration and presentation. Whether for Easter or any special occasion, the Griswold Lamb Cake is sure to impress and delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Griswold Lamb Cake Mold?
The Griswold Lamb Cake Mold is a vintage cast iron baking mold from the early 1900s, designed to create detailed lamb-shaped cakes, often used for Easter celebrations.
Why should I use a vintage mold like Griswold’s for baking?
Vintage molds offer unique, detailed designs that add nostalgic charm and character to your baked goods, making celebrations more special and memorable.
What temperature and baking time are best for this lamb cake?
Bake the cake at 350°F (177°C) for 40 to 50 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center.
How do I prepare the Griswold Lamb Cake Mold before baking?
Inspect, season, and grease the mold carefully, dust it with flour, and preheat the oven to 350°F. Position the oven rack in the middle for even cooking.
What kind of cake batter works best for this mold?
Use a moist and tender batter made with classic ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract, folded gently for a light texture.
How do I remove the cake from the mold without damaging it?
Loosen edges with a spatula, invert the mold, tap gently to release the cake, and cool it completely on a wire rack before decorating.
What frosting is recommended for the lamb cake?
Classic buttercream frosting is ideal for a smooth, creamy finish that enhances the vintage charm of the lamb cake.
What decorations enhance the vintage lamb cake’s appearance?
Use powdered sugar dust, edible glitter, pastel candies, and intricate piping to mimic lamb wool and facial features.
How should I store the lamb cake to keep it fresh?
Wrap the cake gently with plastic wrap, store in an airtight container, and refrigerate or freeze if needed. Bring refrigerated cake to room temperature before serving.
Can beginners successfully make a lamb cake using this mold?
Yes, the recipe and preparation steps are designed to be easy to follow for both novice and experienced bakers.