Sternekuchen Mold

Amana Colonies tinsmithing shops in the communal era from 1855-1932, were fully equipped with machinery imported from Germany and Chicago. The tinsmiths provided most of the utensils used in the community kitchens, as well as for winemaking, butchering, and other industries. The star-shaped wedding cake mold was made for wedding cakes, usually a marble cake. These pans were large as baking for many was the rule. No two molds were exactly alike as they were handcrafted. The pan was an octagon with 4 points and 4 rounded corners which had either a square or round open center which would ensure that the cake would bake evenly. Some are still made today by a local tinner. ( Bill Metz passed away in April of 2021) These pans are rare and highly prized.