Inspired by the resourcefulness of Homefront bakers during World War I—when fresh fruit was scarce and creativity was key—this cake uses canned pineapple, a pantry staple of the time ...

Once white, it has browned with age. But despite this, the rich fruit cake inside is said to be still moist. Once white as a symbol of purity, the ornate cake, complete with its floral display ...

You can call it a "make-good" for what American soldiers did during World War II. The U.S. military delivered to Meri Mion a birthday cake covered in icing and decked out with fresh fruit on top.

Made without the plum topping, the cake freezes well. (It is best not to freeze the cake with the fruit, since it becomes mushy when defrosted.) For best results, wrap the cake carefully in ...