The origins of the Pat a cake poem are unknown, but the tradition of decorating cakes with the name or initial of a child is still adhered to today!
 

The song Pat a cake is always accompanied by a clapping game - much loved by children everywhere.
 

The actions which accompany Pat a cake probably account for the ritual of passing this particular song from one generation to the next. Earliest traceable publication 1698.

 

Pat a cake Pat a cake poem

Pat a cake, Pat a cake, baker's man
Bake me a cake as fast as you can;
Pat it and prick it and mark it with a 'B',
And put it in the oven for Baby and me.

Pat a cake Pat a cake poem