This Sweet Treat Named 'Most Iconic Dessert' In MD By Condé Nast Traveler

Luxury and lifestyle travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler recently released a list of the most iconic desserts in each state, and the Smith Island cake made the list for Maryland.

The list titled "50 States, 50 Desserts: America's Favorite Sweet Treats" was compiled after "months of reaching out to sources around the country and whittling the answers down," according to Condé Nast Traveler.

The final list includes a range of desserts, from berry-stuffed pastries and buttery cakes to use-what-you've-got pies and sugary frozen treats.

In Maryland, the Smith Island cake, the state’s official dessert since 2008, boasts a history "as rich as the buttery confection itself," Condé Nast wrote.

The Smith Island cake itself is a multi-layered treat traditionally consisting of 8 to 10 layers of yellow cake, separated by chocolate fudge frosting. It's a classic dessert with roots in the Chesapeake Bay's Smith Island.

"While the official origins remain unknown, it is rumored that it was originally made by wives of oystermen and fishermen in the 1800s to feed their husbands as they traveled along the Chesapeake Bay during the autumn oyster harvest," Condé Nast wrote.

New variations of the Smith Island cake have popped up over the years, featuring flavors like coconut, red velvet, and strawberry, according to the list.

Travelers to Smith Island can grab a slice of its namesake cake at Bayside Inn Restaurant, Harborside Bar & Grill or at Smith Island Bakery, the last of which will ship to anywhere in the United States. Smith Island Bakery serves the original flavor and several variations, including a rainbow cake and a gluten-free version.

"Venture further into Maryland — Baltimore, Ocean City, Saint Michaels — and you’ll find several restaurants and bakeries that also pay homage to the sweet treat," Condé Nast wrote.

The full list from Condé Nast Traveler can be viewed here.

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