What Does Rhubarb, Father’s Day, and a ’61 Corvette Have In Common?
Posted on June 24, 2020
Jenna Carson has worked at St. Ann’s Community for nearly 9 years. In addition to serving as a Life Enrichment Advocate and Music Therapist, she is also an avid gardener and lends her green thumb to the gardens of St. Ann’s Home. In years past, Jenna has had the help from the residents of the Home and Wegman Care Center, but in 2020, she’s had to do much of the work herself.[/vc_column_text]
In March 2020, Jenna’s father, Gary (aka her “Pa”), became a resident of the Wegman Care Center. While Jenna and her father enjoy being able to see each other almost daily, Gary naturally misses a few things about living in his own home – and one of those things is his favorite homemade dessert, rhubarb cake. Gary tried this dessert for the first time at a Corvette Club picnic several years ago (yes, he owns a ’61 Corvette that he restored himself!) and has had his daughter make it for him on many, many occasions. Gary, who is known to share his opinions – good or bad – about cooking, was over moon about this recipe so Jenna knew it was a keeper!
While Jenna was tending to the SAH gardens this week, she realized that one plant was at its peak and ready to be harvested – rhubarb! After speaking with Pasquale Conca, Executive Chef of St. Ann’s Home and Wegman Care Center, they agreed that recreating this recipe for the residents of St. Ann’s would be the perfect summer treat and a special little something to share with the Dads over Father’s Day weekend!
To quote Gary and Jenna, “It has buttermilk in it, of course it’s going to be delicious!”
Pa’s Favorite Rhubarb Cake
¾ c. Shortening
2 ½ c. Sugar
2 Eggs
1 ½ c. Buttermilk
1 ½ tsp. Vanilla
3 c. Flour
1 tsp. Baking Soda
1 ½ tsp. Salt
3 c. Rhubarb
Topping:
1/3 c. Sugar
1 ½ tsp. cinnamon
Cream shortening with sugar. Add eggs, buttermilk and vanilla. Stir in flour, baking soda and salt. Stir in rhubarb.
Mix topping separately and sprinkle on top.
Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes.
