C&H Celebrates Generations of Sweet Traditions

2006 Marks C&H's Centennial

(Crockett, Calif.) April 13, 2006 – In 2006 the C&H Sugar Company celebrates its Sweet Centennial -- one hundred proud years of producing the highest quality pure cane sugar available! All those years of baking, and a vast library of recipes, evoke a sweet nostalgia as we take a look back.

Baking desserts, once a momentous undertaking, was revolutionized in the twentieth century by time-saving and innovative kitchen equipment and the sudden easy availability of ingredients such as butter, milled flour, and sugar. Inspired by the creative ingenuity of the homemakers and hostesses of the 1930s and 1940s, C&H began developing and distributing recipes for simple, charming desserts to share with families and neighbors.

During the Depression and World War II, when many baking ingredients were rationed and spared, dessert was a luxury for most American families. Fruit-based desserts grew in popularity then, and C&H was quick to lead the trend. Popular C&H fruit-based recipes from the 1930s included Fruit Melange, a fruit mixture covered in syrup and chilled; mildly sweet Orange Bread to enjoy during breakfast or as a snack; and Favorite Punch, for simple, fruity refreshment.

As the economy stabilized and home entertaining became more common, fashionable homemakers took pride in their attention to detail. Small touches such as flavoring C&H sugar cubes, made a delightful presentation and showed off the hostess’s skill. Treats such as C&H's Golden Syrup and Easy Butterscotch Sauce allowed 1940s homemakers to always have a delicious topping for pancakes or ice cream ready to serve.

For time-pressed bakers of the twenty-first century, classic recipes from past decades prove to be surprisingly adaptable. Here are a few to try:

• A rice pudding dessert, this 1938 Carmelo Rice dish is a smooth indulgence.
• The classic C&H Barbecued Spare Ribs recipe, developed in 1948, is a simple and savory favorite!
• Celebrate with Granny's Birthday Cake, first developed by C&H in the 1930s. It called for "Berry Granulated Sugar," now known as Baker's Sugar.

Making a recipe that has been passed down through generations carries memories and tradition. We've loved being part of those sweet moments and hope to share more with you in the years to come.

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