Try these 6 recipes enjoyed by former U.S. presidents

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (TENNESSEE VALLEY LIVING) – What do jellybeans, fudge, and gingerbread have in common? Turns out all were reportedly favorite foods of U.S. presidents.

In honor of Presidents’ Day, the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution joined TVL to chat about six different foods enjoyed by six different presidents, and it might be safe to say that each of these national leaders had quite the sweet tooth.

1. Washington Gingerbread. This exact recipe was discovered in the 1920s when the DAR renovated the home of Washington’s sister in Fredericksburg, VA. It was the recipe of Washington’s mother, Mary Ball Washington, and was likely served to Washington for much of his life. It has a few rare ingredients, such as Mace and shavings of an orange peel, plus a hefty dose of brandy!

2. Jefferson Cookies. These were allegedly among Thomas Jefferson’s favorite foods. They are often linked to special events during Christmas at Monticello, and if you like molasses — you will like these!

3. Madison Cinnamon Teacakes. These are associated with President James Madison and his wife, Dolly. The story goes that Dolly would make these teacakes to help her husband build political relationships (James was probably the most nerdish president with limited social skills) and would serve them at various social functions she would host at the White House.

4. Lincoln’s Almond Cake. This cake recipe came from Mary Todd Lincoln’s family in Lexington, KY. Mary Todd made the cake for Abraham Lincoln while the two were dating and continued to make it even after they were married. It’s certainly a labor of love as the flour must be sifted multiple times, and the almonds must be crushed to a powder.

5. Eisenhower’s “Million Dollar” Fudge. This easy recipe became associated with President Eisenhower in the early 1950s. Having been part of a Women’s National Press Club fundraiser in which cookbooks were sold for two dollars each, Mrs. Eisenhower submitted this recipe to help the group, and it quickly became a hit.  Another fun fact: there are 1½ pounds of semi-sweet chocolate in a single pan of fudge!

6. Reagan Jellybeans. In an effort to quit smoking in the 60s, Ronald Reagan kept Jellybeans on his desk while governor of California in effort to steer his bad habit in a new direction. The candy would go on to become a Reagan staple and could later be found in the Oval Office and on Air Force One.

So, if you needed an excuse to whip up a cake or eat a handful of Jellybeans – Presidents’ Day is the day to do it!

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