Immaculate Conception and a recipe to Celebrate the Day with

The Feast of Immaculate Conception observed each year on December 8th celebrates the solemn celebration of belief in the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The feast is observed around the world and is one of the most important dates in the Roman Catholic church.

Argentina, Brazil, Korea, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Philippines, Spain, and the United States observe The Feast of Immaculate Conception as a pontifical designation and decree. The pope , the Bishop of Rome, will visit the Column of the Immaculate Conception in Piazza di Spagna There he will offer prayers during a solemn event. Popes have been participating in this anually since 1708 when Pope Clement XII solemnized the event.

Parades, fireworks, processions, ethnic foods, and cultural festivities will be offered to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary. The day is often considered a family day An amazing feast is often hosted by many on this wondrous day. All will dine on a meal with family and then share a delicious dessert in most cases. This cake may be one choice to serve on this day

2 cups flour
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 tablespoon plus 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/2 cup shortening
1 1/2 t vanilla
3 egg whites, room temp
Icing
1/4 cup butter
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoon half & half
2 tablespoon hot water
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Cake 
Combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in mixing bowl.
Add milk, shortening and 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla.
Beat at medium speed until well blended.
Add egg whites, beat 2 minutes.
Pour batter into greased and floured 13″x9″ pan.
Bake at 350° F degrees for 20-25 minutes, until cake tests done with a toothpick.
Cool.
Icing
Melt butter in heavy saucepan.
Cook over low heat until butter is golden brown.
Remove from heat and add powdered sugar, half & half, water and vanilla.
Beat with a whisk for 3 minutes, or until smooth.
Spread evenly over top of cake.

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