Ep 1. Forgotten Cakes

Cook's Country season 1 episode 1, titled "Forgotten Cakes," is an exploration of the unique and sometimes obscure cakes that have fallen out of popularity over time. The episode takes us on a journey across America as the Cook's Country team tracks down forgotten cake recipes and techniques, showcasing the regional and cultural diversity of American cuisine.

The episode kicks off with a visit to a local farm in Vermont, where the team begins their search for old-fashioned recipes and techniques for making delicious cakes. They learn about a cake called "shoofly pie," a Pennsylvania Dutch dish that dates back to the early colonial days of America. Made with molasses and a crumbly, sweet topping, shoofly pie is a decadent treat that can be enjoyed any time of day.

Next, the show takes us down to the Gulf Coast, where we learn about a cake called "bananas foster." This dessert, which became popular in New Orleans in the 1950s, features ripe bananas and a lush caramel sauce topped with whipped cream. The Cook's Country team demonstrates how to make the cake from scratch, using fresh, natural ingredients for a truly decadent and unforgettable flavor.

Continuing their journey across the country, the team next travels to a small town in Kansas, where they discover a cake known as "huckleberry buckle." This scrumptious dessert is made with juicy huckleberries, a sweet crumb topping, and a light, fluffy batter. As the team prepares the cake, they offer up tips and tricks for how to create the perfect texture and flavor, as well as techniques for properly measuring ingredients and incorporating them into the batter.

Finally, the episode concludes with a visit to the southern region of the United States, home to another fascinating cake recipe. "Red velvet" cake, which traditionally features a bright red color and a rich, decadent texture, has become a staple of southern cuisine over the years. The Cook's Country team offers up their take on this classic cake, incorporating fresh beet juice for a natural, vibrant hue and a delicious, moist crumb that will satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.

Throughout the episode, the Cook's Country team incorporates a variety of kitchen and cooking tips, demonstrating the importance of using quality ingredients, experimenting with different techniques and flavor combinations, and properly timing and measuring ingredients to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With its focus on forgotten cakes and unique regional recipes, Cook's Country season 1 episode 1 offers a delightful and informative look at the rich culinary history and diversity of America's many cuisines.