Ever heard of a dessert with a name as intriguing as Funeral Cake? This unique treat, often tied to Southern traditions, carries a history as rich as its flavor. We’re diving into a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, bringing comfort during times of mourning with its simple yet heartfelt sweetness.
Funeral Cake, sometimes called Scripture Cake, gets its name from its association with gatherings after memorial services, where communities come together to share stories and solace. It’s a humble dessert, typically made with everyday pantry staples, reflecting a time when resourcefulness was key.
We’re excited to share our take on this classic, blending nostalgia with a touch of modern ease. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or simply curious about this storied dish, our Funeral Cake recipe promises a slice of history that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
What Is a Funeral Cake?
We’re diving deep into the heart of a Southern tradition with the Funeral Cake – a dessert steeped in history and emotion. This isn’t just any cake; it’s a symbol of comfort and community often served during gatherings after memorial services. Known by various names like “mourning cake” or “funeral pie” in different regions, this humble dessert carries a profound significance in times of loss. Let’s explore what makes the Funeral Cake so special and why it remains a cherished part of Southern heritage.
Historical Roots of Funeral Cake
The origins of the Funeral Cake trace back to the resourceful kitchens of the American South where simple ingredients were transformed into something meaningful. In days gone by, families relied on pantry staples like flour, sugar, and dried fruits to create a dish that could feed a crowd during somber occasions. This cake often featured in post-funeral gatherings as a way to offer solace through shared meals. We find it fascinating how this dessert reflects a time when communities came together to support one another with whatever they had on hand.
Characteristics and Variations
What sets the Funeral Cake apart is its unassuming elegance. Typically, it’s a dense cake or pie-like dessert filled with ingredients such as raisins, apples, or molasses – items that were easy to store and widely available. Some versions lean toward a spice cake with warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg while others resemble a fruit-filled cobbler. We’ve noticed regional twists too; for instance, in Amish communities, a similar dish called “funeral pie” often uses a custardy filling made with raisins. No matter the variation, the essence remains the same: a heartfelt offering meant to nourish both body and soul.
Cultural Significance
Beyond its ingredients, the Funeral Cake holds a deeper meaning. It’s more than food; it’s a gesture of empathy passed from one hand to another during moments of grief. In Southern culture, bringing a dish to a wake or funeral is a way of saying, “We’re here for you.” We believe this tradition underscores the power of communal bonding – a reminder that even in sorrow there’s sweetness to be shared. The act of baking and sharing this cake keeps history alive while honoring those who’ve passed.
Why We Love Sharing This Tradition
As we modernize the Funeral Cake recipe for today’s kitchens, we’re thrilled to keep this tradition accessible. It’s a chance to connect with the past while adding our own touch of culinary creativity. Whether you’re familiar with this dessert or discovering it for the first time, we invite you to experience the warmth and nostalgia baked into every bite. This cake isn’t just about mourning; it’s about celebrating life through shared stories and flavors that endure.
Ingredients for Funeral Cake
Let’s dive into the heart of our Funeral Cake recipe with the essential components that bring this Southern comfort dessert to life. We’re breaking down the ingredients for both the cake and the frosting to ensure you have everything ready for this nostalgic treat.
Cake Ingredients
We’re crafting a dense and flavorful Funeral Cake using simple pantry staples that echo its historical roots. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Sifted for a smoother texture.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – For just the right sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- 3 large eggs – At room temperature to blend seamlessly.
- 1 cup buttermilk – Adds a tangy depth and keeps the cake moist.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – For a warm aromatic note.
- 1 tsp baking powder – To give the cake a slight lift.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda – Works with buttermilk for tenderness.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup raisins – Soaked in warm water for 10 minutes and drained to plump them up.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – For that comforting spice reminiscent of Southern baking.
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Softened for a velvety base.
- 2 cups powdered sugar – Sifted to avoid lumps.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream – For a luxurious richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – To tie the flavors together.
- Pinch of salt – To balance the sweetness.
Essential Tools and Equipment
As we dive into crafting our beloved Funeral Cake, having the right tools and equipment at hand is crucial for a seamless baking experience. This traditional Southern dessert requires precision and care to honor its historical roots and comforting essence. Let’s equip ourselves with the essentials to bring this nostalgic treat to life while ensuring every step is executed with ease. Below, we’ve outlined the must-have items to prepare your kitchen for baking this mourning cake masterpiece.
Baking Essentials
To create a Funeral Cake that embodies the warmth of community and tradition, start with these fundamental tools:
- 9×13-inch Baking Pan: Ideal for achieving the perfect shape and even baking of our dense and hearty cake.
- Mixing Bowls: Use a set of medium and large bowls for combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Whisk and Spatula: Essential for blending the batter smoothly and scraping every bit of goodness from the bowl.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key when measuring ingredients like all-purpose flour and ground cinnamon to maintain the cake’s authentic texture.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer: Speeds up the process of creaming butter and sugar for a fluffy base, though a sturdy whisk can work if you prefer a manual approach.
Preparation Tools
Prepping ingredients for our Funeral Cake is just as important as the baking itself. Ensure you have these tools ready:
- Cutting Board and Knife: Handy for chopping raisins or any additional dried fruits if you’re customizing the recipe.
- Sifter: Useful for aerating flour and removing lumps to achieve a smoother batter.
- Small Saucepan: Perfect for softening raisins in warm water or preparing components of the frosting if needed.
Frosting and Finishing Gear
The frosting elevates our Funeral Cake into a true comfort dessert. Make sure you’re equipped with:
- Mixing Bowl and Electric Mixer: Vital for whipping up a creamy frosting with unsalted butter and powdered sugar.
- Offset Spatula: Helps spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake for a polished look.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the cake to cool properly before frosting to prevent melting or uneven layers.
Quick Reference Table for Tools
To keep things organized, here’s a handy table summarizing the essential tools for baking your Funeral Cake:
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| 9×13-inch Baking Pan | Shaping and baking the cake | Essential |
| Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients | Essential |
| Whisk and Spatula | Mixing and scraping batter | Essential |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Critical |
| Electric Mixer | Creaming and mixing batter/frosting | Highly Recommended |
| Cutting Board and Knife | Prepping dried fruits like raisins | Optional but Useful |
| Sifter | Aerating dry ingredients | Recommended |
| Small Saucepan | Softening raisins or frosting prep | Optional |
| Offset Spatula | Spreading frosting evenly | Recommended |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling cake before frosting | Essential |
With these tools in our arsenal, we’re fully prepared to tackle every step of the Funeral Cake recipe with confidence. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or simply to savor a slice of Southern history, having the right equipment ensures that this mourning dessert comes together effortlessly. Let’s move forward to mixing those humble ingredients into a dish that speaks of comfort and community.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing a Funeral Cake ahead of time can be a lifesaver, especially when you’re hosting a gathering or contributing to a memorial service. This Southern classic, with its deep roots in comfort and community, deserves to shine without adding stress to your day. We’ve got you covered with practical tips to streamline the process while preserving the cake’s nostalgic charm and rich flavors. Let’s dive into how we can make this mourning cake a seamless part of your preparations.
Plan and Prep Ingredients in Advance
To save time, we recommend measuring out all the dry ingredients for your Funeral Cake up to a day before baking. Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in a bowl, then store this mix in an airtight container. Label it clearly to avoid any mix-ups. For the wet ingredients, soak the raisins in warm water overnight to plump them up—this enhances their texture and flavor in the final bake. Keep refrigerated butter and eggs ready to bring to room temperature a few hours before you start mixing.
Bake the Cake Ahead of Time
One of the best things about this Southern tradition is how well it holds up when baked in advance. We suggest baking the Funeral Cake up to two days before your event. Follow the recipe through the baking and cooling steps, then wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap to lock in moisture. Store it at room temperature in a cool, dry place. This not only saves you time on the day of the gathering but also allows the flavors of molasses or raisins to meld beautifully, creating a deeper, more comforting taste.
Prepare the Frosting Early
The frosting for our Funeral Cake can be whipped up a day or two ahead with ease. Make the mixture using unsalted butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Once prepared, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before frosting the cake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften, then give it a quick stir to restore its creamy consistency. This step ensures that spreading the frosting over your mourning cake is effortless and results in a smooth finish.
Storage Guidelines for Optimal Freshness
Proper storage is key to maintaining the dense, nostalgic texture of this funeral pie-inspired dessert. Below, we’ve outlined the best practices for keeping your Funeral Cake fresh when made ahead.
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredient Mix | Airtight container at room temp | Up to 1 day | Keep in a cool, dry place |
| Baked Cake (Unfrosted) | Wrapped in plastic wrap at room temp | Up to 2 days | Avoid refrigeration to prevent drying |
| Frosting | Airtight container in refrigerator | Up to 2 days | Soften at room temp before use |
| Assembled Cake | Covered at room temp | Up to 1 day | Frost only when ready to serve |
Assemble on the Day Of
For the best presentation and texture, we advise assembling your Funeral Cake on the day of the gathering. Frost the cake a few hours before serving to keep the topping fresh and vibrant. If you’ve baked ahead, unwrap the cake and check for any dry spots—if needed, brush a thin layer of simple syrup to revive moisture. Add the frosting in smooth, even layers to highlight the comforting essence of this dessert. As a final touch, sprinkle a dusting of cinnamon for a nod to its Southern roots.
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure that the Funeral Cake remains a heartfelt symbol of empathy and shared support without overwhelming your schedule. These steps let us honor the tradition of bringing warmth to moments of grief while keeping the process stress-free.
Instructions for Funeral Cake
Let’s dive into crafting our cherished Funeral Cake, a dessert steeped in Southern tradition and comfort. With these clear step-by-step instructions, we’ll guide you through creating this nostalgic treat with ease and confidence.
Prep the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking. Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spice.
Next, in a separate bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter (softened) and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air into the mixture. Pour in 1 cup of buttermilk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three batches, mixing on low speed to avoid overworking the batter. Finally, fold in 1 cup of raisins with a spatula for that signature Funeral Cake texture. The batter should be thick yet smooth, carrying a warm cinnamon aroma that hints at the comfort to come.
Bake the Cake
Pour the prepared batter into the greased 9×13-inch pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula for uniform baking. Place the pan in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake after 30 minutes as ovens vary—look for a golden-brown top that springs back lightly when touched. The rich scent of baked cinnamon and raisins will fill your kitchen, evoking memories of Southern gatherings. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the cake sets properly for frosting.
Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools, let’s whip up a creamy frosting to complement our Funeral Cake. In a medium mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of unsalted butter (softened) with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth—about 1 minute. Gradually add 3 cups of powdered sugar in small increments, mixing on low to avoid a sugar cloud. Pour in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, along with a pinch of salt, to balance the sweetness. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. The result should be a velvety spread with a subtle sheen, perfect for topping our comforting dessert. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon more cream; if too thin, incorporate a bit more powdered sugar.
Assemble and Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely—give it at least 1-2 hours on the wire rack—place it on a serving platter or keep it in the pan for easy transport, a nod to its traditional role at gatherings. Using an offset spatula, spread the prepared frosting evenly over the top of the Funeral Cake, creating smooth swirls or a rustic finish as desired. Ensure the frosting reaches the edges for a polished look that invites slicing. The contrast of the creamy topping against the dense, raisin-studded cake offers a visual warmth that mirrors its purpose of comfort. For an optional touch, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top to enhance the nostalgic aroma. Slice and serve this beloved mourning cake to share a piece of history and heartfelt support at any gathering.
Serving Suggestions
As we bring our Funeral Cake to the table, we want to ensure it shines as a symbol of comfort and community. This Southern classic, steeped in tradition, deserves to be presented and enjoyed in ways that honor its historical significance while delighting modern palates. Below, we’ve curated a variety of serving ideas and pairing suggestions to elevate your mourning cake experience, whether you’re hosting a gathering or sharing a quiet moment of remembrance.
Perfect Presentation
Let’s make our Funeral Cake a visual centerpiece that speaks to its heartfelt roots. Slice it into neat squares or rectangles directly from the 9×13-inch pan for that rustic, homey feel. Arrange the pieces on a vintage-style platter or a simple wooden board to evoke nostalgia. Dust the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch or garnish with a few cinnamon sticks to hint at the warm spices within. The deep golden hue of the cake, studded with plump raisins, already tells a story of Southern kitchens—let’s amplify that with thoughtful presentation.
For a more personal touch, serve individual slices on small dessert plates with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This not only enhances the dessert’s dense texture but also adds a creamy contrast to its rich, spiced flavor. If you’re at a memorial gathering, consider placing a small card next to the cake with a note like, “Made with love in memory of [name]”, to tie it back to the tradition of community support.
Ideal Pairings
Pairing our Funeral Cake with the right beverages and sides can transform it from a simple dessert to a memorable part of any gathering. Here are some of our top recommendations to complement the cake’s molasses-like sweetness and cinnamon warmth:
- Hot Beverages: Serve with a steaming mug of coffee or black tea to balance the cake’s richness. The bitterness of coffee cuts through the sweetness, while tea enhances the subtle spice notes. For a Southern twist, offer a glass of sweet tea—a nod to the cake’s regional roots.
- Cold Options: On warmer days, pair the cake with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade. The citrusy brightness of lemonade contrasts beautifully with the dense, spiced cake, making each bite feel lighter.
- Comforting Sides: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience. The cold creaminess against the warm cake (if served slightly reheated) creates a sensory comfort that echoes the cake’s purpose. Alternatively, a small bowl of stewed apples or apple butter can tie into the traditional flavors often found in funeral pie variations.
Serving Sizes and Portions
To help you plan for your gathering, we’ve put together a quick guide on serving sizes for our Funeral Cake. This ensures everyone gets a taste of this heartwarming dessert without running short.
| Number of Guests | Suggested Portions (9×13 Pan) | Slice Size |
|---|---|---|
| 10-12 | 12 slices | 3×3-inch squares |
| 15-20 | 20 slices | 2.5×2.5-inch squares |
| 25-30 | 30 slices | 2×2-inch rectangles |
Note: If you’re expecting a larger crowd, consider baking two cakes or slicing smaller portions. Keep a few extra pieces aside for seconds—trust us, guests will ask!
Occasion-Specific Tips
Our Funeral Cake isn’t just for somber occasions. While it holds a special place at memorial services and wakes, its comforting essence makes it suitable for various settings. For a potluck or family reunion, serve it as a nostalgic dessert that sparks stories of the past. At a holiday gathering, pair it with mulled cider to embrace seasonal vibes while maintaining its traditional charm. If you’re simply sharing a quiet moment at home, enjoy a slice with a loved one over a cup of hot cocoa—let the cake’s warmth remind you of shared bonds.
No matter the occasion, we encourage you to share the story behind this mourning cake. Tell your guests about its Southern heritage and its role in offering solace during grief. This not only enriches the experience but also keeps the tradition alive for future generations.
Storing and Freezing Tips
Preserving the comforting essence of our Funeral Cake is just as important as baking it with love. Whether you’re preparing this nostalgic Southern dessert for a gathering or saving leftovers to savor later, proper storage and freezing techniques ensure that every slice retains its dense texture and heartwarming flavor. Let’s dive into the best practices to keep this mourning cake fresh and ready to share during times of solace or celebration.
Storing Your Funeral Cake
To maintain the moisture and richness of our Funeral Cake, follow these simple storage steps:
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool entirely on a wire rack after baking. This prevents condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
- Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to serve the cake within 1-2 days, store it at room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to protect it from drying out.
- Refrigeration for Longer Freshness: For storage up to a week, refrigerate the cake. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Alternatively, use an airtight container to avoid absorbing fridge odors.
- Frosting Consideration: If the cake is frosted, refrigeration is recommended to keep the frosting intact. Place it in a container tall enough to avoid smudging the top.
Tip: “Always store the Funeral Cake away from strong-smelling foods in the fridge to preserve its comforting cinnamon and raisin notes.”
Freezing for Future Gatherings
Freezing is a fantastic option if you want to prepare this Southern tradition well in advance or save leftovers for future moments of comfort. Here’s how we ensure our Funeral Cake freezes beautifully:
- Freeze Without Frosting: For best results, freeze the cake unfrosted. Frosting can become grainy or lose its texture when frozen. Prepare and apply the frosting after thawing for that fresh-baked appeal.
- Wrap Securely: Cut the cake into slices or keep it whole. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double protection prevents freezer burn.
- Use Freezer Bags: Place the wrapped slices or whole cake into a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Label with the date to track freshness.
- Freezing Duration: Our Funeral Cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Beyond this, the texture may start to degrade, though it will still be safe to eat.
Pro Tip: “Portioning the cake into individual slices before freezing makes it easy to thaw just what you need for a quick comforting treat.”
Thawing and Serving After Freezing
When you’re ready to enjoy or share this mourning dessert, thawing it properly is key to reviving its nostalgic aroma and tender crumb:
- Refrigerator Thawing: Transfer the wrapped cake or slices to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. This slow process helps maintain moisture.
- Room Temperature Thawing: For a quicker option, let the cake sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours. Keep it wrapped until fully thawed to avoid drying out.
- Reheating Option: If you prefer a warm slice, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes after thawing.
- Frosting After Thawing: Whip up a fresh batch of our creamy frosting to spread over the thawed cake for that just-baked look and taste.
Quick Reference: Storage and Freezing Durations
| Storage Method | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1-2 days | Short-term storage before serving |
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 week | Maintaining freshness for a few days |
| Freezing (Unfrosted) | Up to 3 months | Long-term storage for future events |
By following these Storing and Freezing Tips, we ensure that our Funeral Cake remains a symbol of comfort and community no matter when it’s served. Whether you’re preparing for a memorial gathering or simply preserving a slice of Southern heritage, these methods keep every bite as meaningful as the first.
Conclusion
We hope you’re inspired to bake this heartfelt Funeral Cake and share its warmth with loved ones. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a bridge to cherished memories and a symbol of togetherness.
By bringing this Southern tradition into your kitchen, you’re keeping a piece of history alive. We’re thrilled to help you create moments of comfort and connection with every slice.
Got questions or personal twists on this recipe? Drop us a comment below—we’d love to hear your stories!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Funeral Cake, and why is it called that?
Funeral Cake is a traditional Southern dessert often served at gatherings after memorial services. Its name comes from its historical role as a comforting dish during times of mourning, symbolizing community support and empathy. Made with simple pantry staples, it reflects a resourceful past and offers a taste of nostalgia.
What are the main ingredients in Funeral Cake?
The primary ingredients for Funeral Cake include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda, salt, raisins, and ground cinnamon. The frosting typically uses unsalted butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
What tools do I need to bake Funeral Cake?
Essential tools for baking Funeral Cake include a 9×13-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer, a sifter, and a cutting board. These items ensure a smooth baking process and help achieve the cake’s signature texture and flavor.
Can I make Funeral Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Funeral Cake up to two days in advance. Measure dry ingredients a day before, soak raisins overnight for better flavor, and bake the cake early. Store it properly to maintain moisture, and frost it on the day of the event for the best presentation.
How should I store Funeral Cake to keep it fresh?
Cool the cake completely before storing. For short-term storage, keep it at room temperature in an airtight container for 1-2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it for up to a week. For freezing, wrap an unfrosted cake securely and store for up to three months.
How do I freeze and thaw Funeral Cake?
To freeze, wrap an unfrosted Funeral Cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then label it with the date. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight to retain moisture, or reheat gently in the oven if serving warm.
What are some serving suggestions for Funeral Cake?
Serve Funeral Cake in neat squares, garnished with powdered sugar or cinnamon sticks for a nice presentation. Pair it with hot coffee or tea, cold iced tea or lemonade, or sides like vanilla ice cream or stewed apples to enhance the comforting experience.
Is Funeral Cake only for funerals?
No, while it has historical ties to memorial gatherings, Funeral Cake is suitable for any occasion. Its comforting nature and nostalgic flavors make it a wonderful dessert for family reunions, potlucks, or any event where you want to share warmth and community.