[1] It was invented or popularized by Emma Rylander Lane (1856–1904), a native and long-time resident of Americus, Georgia, who developed the recipe while living in Clayton, Alabama, in the 1890s.

Sisters Florrie and Nina Ottolengui, managers of the Women's Exchange Tea tearoom are credited with developing it.

Pour into a small, deep stew pan and cook on top of the stove until quite thick, stirring all the time, or it will be sure to burn.

When done and while still hot, put in one cup of seeded and finely clipped raisins, one wine-glass of good whiskey or brandy and one teaspoon of vanilla.

One such cook, Atlanta baker and Alabama native Lise Ode, wrote about her work to create a recipe that matched her memories.

[10] Professional chef Tori Avey includes a recipe for Lane cake on her website[11] complete with pictures of each step.

The Purefoy Hotel Cook Book published in 1953 has the recipe for Lane cake appearing on page 123–124.

In Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, a Lane cake is given as a welcome gift to Aunt Alexandra by Miss Maudie Atkinson.

Also in To Kill a Mockingbird, Miss Maudie bakes a Lane cake for Mr. Avery, who was severely injured in an attempt to put out a fire in her home.

Since this cake recipe required a strong dose of bourbon, it was just for the adult relatives, doctors, nurses, and other friends who would be invited to our house for eggnog.