Since opening its first location in the United States at The Wharf in Washington, DC, a few months ago, Lumiere’s Chimney Cake, a well-known international dessert franchise that has gained viral popularity, has been a hit. According to DC Spot (video below), the company has big ambitions to grow even more into Maryland’s Silver Spring and Virginia’s Mosaic District, however exact addresses for these additional locations have not yet been revealed.
Popular on social media sites like TikTok, Lumier’s Chimney Cake is a worldwide dessert franchise that has gained popularity due to its inventive fillings and toppings. The Wharf in Washington, DC, is the brand’s first American site, however it is also present in Georgia and Turkey.
A classic sweet pastry with a unique shape is called a chimney cake. It is created by rolling a sweet, yeast-based dough into a long, thin strip, much like a brioche. A cylindrical or cone-shaped spit is then encircled by this strip of dough in a spiral pattern. After being wrapped in powdered sugar, it is roasted in a special oven or on a rotisserie grill. As it cooks, the sugar caramelizes to produce a golden-brown crust that is crispy and glossy.
The result is a cylindrical, hollow pastry. Its name comes from the fact that steam frequently rises from the center when it’s hot. The surface is crunchy and caramelized, while the inside is soft and fluffy, creating a pleasant texture contrast. Chimney cakes are typically eaten with almonds, walnuts, or cinnamon. Modern variants, such as those provided by establishments like Lumier’s, frequently go beyond this, though. Ice cream, soft serve, other creams, fruit, or even savory ingredients can be poured into the hollow core.
