This cake has a long history that stems from medieval times (or even earlier). It was traditionally offered on Mothering Sunday, which falls halfway through Lent. On this day, domestic servant girls returned home to visit their Mother Church and families. Since this was halfway through the Lenten fast, the high-calorie cake was an especially nice treat! The recipe has varied over the centuries, and Mothering Day has turned into Mother's Day, but the cake continues to be enjoyed as a traditional Easter treat.