Here is a traditional English Tea shop near Lake Balaton

“Where there is cake, there is hope. And there is always cake. ” Dean Koontz, author

For centuries people have commemorated important people and events with unique cakes: Victoria sandwich for Queen Victoria, Churchill Fruit cake for Winston Churchill, Trench cake for the end of the First World War or Coronation Cake for the crowning of a new monarch are just a few examples. This March 15 commemorate one of Hungary’s most influential statesmen with a delicious “Kossuth Cake”.

But first a little history:

After the Hungarian uprising of 1848, Lajos Kossuth was invited to visit America in 1851 to raise awareness of the plight of Hungary and to raise funds for a renewed revolt. Although his visit only raised $25, he was hailed as a hero and a champion of freedom. To commemorate his visit to Baltimore a local confectioner created a unique dessert.

Based on an old recipe for the famous Charlotte Russe, the Kossuth cake that he created combined a soft sponge cupcake with a filling of sweet whipped cream and a topping of either strawberry or chocolate sauce.

Although now largely forgotten, the team at Florridora’s Pantry will be paying homage to Lajos Kossuth during March by serving these delicious cakes in their newly restored and relocated English Tea Room which is now in Balatonmagyaród.

Ken Jones, one of the tearoom’s owners said “ In addition to offering traditional, home-baked, English cakes, we are proud to offer our guests the opportunity to sample this unique treat that celebrates the life of this famous Hungarian statesman”.

Neil Stevens, another of the owners, adds “We aim to continue offering visitors a unique experience that merges authentic English baking using vintage recipes and a traditional Hungarian setting.”

Florridora’s Pantry is open at weekends and public holidays throughout the year with extended hours during the tourist season.