master-cooks | The Iconic Michigan Cake With A Signature Bumpy Look

The iconic Michigan cake, famously known as the Bumpy Cake, is a delightful confection with a distinct appearance and rich history. Originating in the early 1900s, this cake is beloved for its unique design and decadent flavors. At its core, the Bumpy Cake features a rich, moist chocolate cake base that sets the stage for its signature look. The cake is topped with rows of sweet, creamy buttercream "bumps" that give it its characteristic texture. These bumps are then generously coated with a smooth, glossy chocolate ganache, creating a luscious contrast to the cake's soft interior. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite a satisfying experience. The Bumpy Cake quickly became a staple dessert in Michigan households and is often associated with celebrations and special occasions. Its nostalgic charm and delicious taste have helped it endure as a regional favorite for over a century. Today, the Bumpy Cake continues to be cherished not only for its taste but also for the memories it evokes, representing a sweet slice of Michigan's culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering or given as a gift, the Bumpy Cake remains a timeless treat that brings joy to those who savor it.

Bumpy cake has been a Michigan staple for over a century

The tale of Michigan's cherished bumpy cake traces its origins back to Sanders Confectionary in Detroit. Founded by Fred Sanders in 1875 as a candy shop, his entrepreneurial spirit drove him to diversify into a bakery, luncheonette, and soda fountain. A popular myth suggests that Sanders created the ice cream float while working at the soda fountain, although evidence to support this claim is scarce. Regardless, Sanders' contribution to culinary history is firmly established through the bumpy cake, which he introduced in 1912. Today, the Sanders brand remains synonymous with bumpy cake.

Sanders supplies bumpy cakes to grocery stores throughout Michigan, making this beloved treat reliant on a single brand. This dependency became problematic in early 2024 when Sanders' parent company, Second Nature Brands, enlisted a bakery in Livonia, Michigan, to produce the cakes. However, when the bakery shut down at the end of 2023, Sanders lost its supplier, leading to the disappearance of bumpy cakes from store shelves. For a brief period, it seemed as though bumpy cake might vanish for good. Fortunately, after a lengthy six-month wait, the cake made its return to stores, though it never left the hearts of Michiganders.

The Iconic Michigan Cake With A Signature Bumpy Look

Bumpy cake has been a Michigan staple for over a century

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