Thundercake

This afternoon we read "Thundercake" by, Patricia Polacco. It's a story of Patricia as a young child being taught not to fear the sound of thunder by her Babushka (grandmother). At the end of the book, Ms. Polacco includes the recipe for Thundercake. I thought some of you might be interested in giving it a try. :o)

My Grandma's Thundercake

Cream together, one at a time
1 cup shortening
1 3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 eggs, separated
(Blend yolks in. Beat whites until they are stiff, then fold in.)

1 cup cold water
1/3 cup pureed tomatoes
Sift together
2 1/2 cups cake flour
1/2 cup dry cocoa
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt

Mix dry mixture into creamy mixture.
Bake in two greased and floured 8 1/2-inch round pans at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.
Frost with chocolate butter frosting. Top with strawberries.


P.S. We are learning to be better writers from Patricia Polacco. Ask your child what story they might write about a time when he/she was scared.