From The Folk School Cookbook: A Collection of Seasonal Favorites from John C. Campbell Folk School
Pumpkin Cake with Chocolate Chips
Serves 8–12
Pumpkin season means farmers’ markets and local growers have pumpkins galore in the mountains. They’re technically a squash and extremely healthful. But combine pumpkin with chocolate chips in this delicious cake and you’ve got a match made in heaven.
Preheat oven to 325˚F.
In a large bowl combine with a mixing spoon:
1½ cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
Beat in one at a time:
3 eggs
Mix in:
2 tablespoons vanilla
2 cups pumpkin, cooked and pureed*
In a separate bowl,whisk together:
3 cups self-rising flour
3 teaspoons cinnamon
1 cup chocolate chips
Add to wet ingredients. Pour batter into a greased tube pan.
Bake for 40–50 minutes or until top is golden brown and cake tester comes out dry.
Drizzle the cooled cake with a glaze made from:
2 tablespoons butter
½ cup chocolate chips
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Melt these ingredients together over low heat in a small saucepan.
*Or use 1 (15-ounce) can of pureed pumpkin. Sweet potato or butternut squash can also be substituted.
Recipe from The Folk School Cookbook by Nanette Davidson; Photo by Keather Gougler
Recipe featured above appears in The Folk School Cookbook by Nanette Davidson; Cookbook photography by Keather Gougler, unless otherwise noted.
The Folk School Cookbook:
A Collection of Seasonal Favorites
Arranged by the seasons, the 336-page hardcover book features Southern Appalachian cooking as well as cuisine from other parts of the world—especially those that have helped to shape the history of the school. Folk School regulars will recognize dining hall favorites, Fall Festival fare, Appalachian classics, and treats made for holidays and special events.
Nanette Davidson, cookbook author and former Folk School Resident Artist in Cooking, meticulously collected and curated over 200 recipes including some of the most memorable recipes served family-style in the school’s Dining Hall over the decades.
Between the beautiful photography, illustrations, stories, and the delectable recipes, you’ll be tempted to come to Brasstown for a visit. We hope you will! In the meantime, cook up a taste of John C. Campbell Folk School at home and share it with friends and family.
The Folk School Cookbook is available at the Folk School Craft Shop. Place an order through our online store to have the cookbook shipped directly to you.
The Folk School transforms lives, bringing people together in a nurturing environment for experiences in learning and community life that spark self-discovery. Located in scenic Brasstown, North Carolina, the Folk School offers year-round weeklong and weekend classes for adults in craft, art, music, dance, cooking, gardening, nature studies, photography and writing.
Embrace your creative potential, and join us for a life-changing Folk School experience. Our new January–June 2022 
This looks Delicious!! Can’t wait to try it.