Every country in the world has a cake that is truly a classic--one that has stood the test of time and continues to be passed down from generation to generation. World Class Cakes is a compilation of these timeless recipes, culled from mothers and grandmothers all the world over. Whether you want to make a moist sponge cake to accompany your afternoon tea or craft a show-stopping layer cake to dazzle at a party, you'll find the recipe in this book. Includes scrumptious recipes like:-Japanese green tea pound cake-French flourless chocolate cake-Russian lemon and poppy seed cake-Tres leche cake from Central America-American red velvet cake and hundreds more.Accompanied by stunning step-by-step photography, a history of each cake and the traditions associated with it, and over 250 recipes, this book is essential for any baking enthusiast. Discover why you shouldn't speak above a whisper when making a Polish babka, which country believed you should sleep with wedding cake under your pillow to meet your future husband, and loads more in this charming cake companion.