Funeral cake is a time-honored tradition that brings comfort and connection during moments of loss. This rich, spiced cake has roots in Southern culture where it’s often served at gatherings to honor loved ones and share memories. Its dense texture and warm flavors make it a perfect treat to offer solace and warmth.
We love how this recipe combines simple ingredients to create something deeply meaningful. Whether you’re baking for a memorial or simply want to explore a unique classic, this funeral cake offers a taste of history and heartfelt tradition. Let’s dive into a recipe that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients
To create the iconic funeral cake, we gather a blend of carefully chosen ingredients that balance rich spices, moisture, and a luscious frosting. Below you will find the essential dry, wet, and frosting ingredients broken down for clarity and ease of preparation.
Dry Ingredients
These ingredients form the flavorful foundation of our rich, spiced funeral cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (for structure and density)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (leavening agent)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (to enhance lift)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to balance sweetness)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (warm spice essence)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (adds complexity)
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves (deep, aromatic flavor)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional but traditional for texture)
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients bring moisture and richness, creating that famously dense yet tender crumb for our funeral cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for richness)
- 2 cups granulated sugar (sweetness and caramel notes)
- 3 large eggs (bind and provide lift)
- 1 cup buttermilk (adds moisture and slight tang)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (aromatic depth)
- 1 cup finely chopped dates or raisins (optional for added sweetness and texture)
Frosting Ingredients
The distinctive creamy frosting is what crowns the cake and completes this comforting Southern tradition:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces (softened) | Rich and tangy |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (softened) | Smoothness and richness |
| Powdered sugar | 3 cups | Sweet and smooth texture |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Flavor enhancement |
| Milk or heavy cream | 2-3 tablespoons | Adjust for desired consistency |
Our funeral cake frosting delivers a classic balance between tangy cream cheese and sweet sugar, perfect for spreading generously over the spiced cake layers.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Recipe for Funeral Cake perfectly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Here is a detailed list of tools and utensils we will need to ensure a smooth baking experience and a delicious final cake.
Mixing and Measuring Tools
- Large mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements for flour, sugar, spices, and liquids are critical.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk: To cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy and to blend all ingredients evenly.
Baking Essentials
- 9×13 inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans: For baking the dense spiced cake evenly.
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray: To prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.
- Cooling rack: To allow the cake to cool evenly before frosting.
Preparing the Frosting
- Mixing bowl: Separate bowl dedicated for cream cheese frosting.
- Spatula or spoon: For scraping down the sides of the bowl and smoothing frosting over the cake.
- Electric mixer: Speeds up the process of achieving a creamy, smooth frosting.
Oven and Safety
- Oven thermometer: Ensures accurate baking temperature, crucial for this dense cake.
- Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot pans.
- Timer: Helps monitor precise baking duration to avoid overcooking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large mixing bowls | Mixing dry and wet ingredients |
| Measuring cups & spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Electric mixer/whisk | Creaming butter/sugar and mixing batters |
| 9×13 inch or 9-inch pans | Baking the cake uniformly |
| Parchment paper/non-stick | Prevents sticking to pans |
| Cooling rack | Cooling the cake before frosting |
| Mixing bowl for frosting | Preparing cream cheese frosting |
| Spatula or spoon | Spreading frosting smoothly |
| Oven thermometer | Maintaining correct baking temperature |
| Oven mitts | Handling hot equipment safely |
| Timer | Tracking baking time precisely |
By gathering these essential tools, we ensure the success of our funeral cake baking process, maintaining the authenticity and rich texture the recipe demands. Let’s move forward to mixing our ingredients with confidence knowing everything is prepared.
Preparation
To create the perfect Funeral Cake, following each preparation step carefully is essential. Our method ensures a rich, spiced batter and a well-prepared pan for even baking and optimal texture.
Preparing the Batter
- Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine unsalted butter (1 cup, softened) and granulated sugar (2 cups). Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. This creates a rich base that traps air for a tender crumb.
- Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain an even texture. Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for depth of flavor that complements the warm spices.
- Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and spices:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground nutmeg | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cloves | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Optional chopped nuts | 1 cup (walnuts or pecans) |
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with 1 1/2 cups of buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula or on low speed to prevent overmixing — this keeps the cake dense yet tender.
- Fold in Optional Dried Fruits
If desired, gently fold in 1 cup chopped dates or raisins for added sweetness and moisture.
Preparing the Pan
- Select the Right Pan
Use either a 9×13-inch baking pan for a single-layer cake or two 9-inch round pans for layered presentation.
- Grease and Line
Thoroughly grease the pan(s) with unsalted butter or non-stick spray. Then, line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Preheat the Oven
Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Use an oven thermometer to maintain accuracy, ensuring the cake bakes evenly.
- Prepare for Even Baking
Place the pan(s) on the middle rack. If using two pans, rotate halfway through the baking time to promote uniform color and texture.
Following these preparation steps carefully lets us bake a classic Funeral Cake with a dense, moist texture and rich, comforting spice flavor.
Baking Instructions
Now that we have prepared the batter, let’s move on to baking our classic Funeral Cake. Following these steps carefully will ensure a moist, flavorful cake with the perfect texture.
Baking the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature for even baking.
- Prepare your baking pans by greasing them with butter or non-stick spray, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Divide the batter evenly between two 9-inch round cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops and ensure even thickness.
- Place the pans on the middle oven rack, leaving space between them for proper air circulation.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The lower heat and longer time help develop the dense yet tender crumb that defines funeral cake.
- Avoid opening the oven door during the first 40 minutes to maintain consistent temperature.
Checking for Doneness
To make sure our Funeral Cake bakes perfectly, confirming doneness is essential:
| Method | How to Perform | Expected Result |
|---|---|---|
| Toothpick Test | Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. | It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. |
| Touch Test | Gently press the center of the cake with your finger. | The cake should spring back softly without sinking. |
| Pulling from Edges | Check if the cake has started pulling away from the pan sides. | Edges should slightly separate from the pan. |
“A clean toothpick is our best indicator that the cake is done without being overbaked.”
If the cake needs more time, continue baking in 5-minute increments and recheck until it reaches these signs of doneness.
Once done, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring onto wire racks to cool completely. This step prevents breakage and ensures the cake sets up properly for frosting.
By diligently following these Baking Instructions, we ensure the rich, spiced flavor and classic dense texture that make our Funeral Cake a comforting tradition.
Cooling and Frosting
Proper Cooling and Frosting are essential steps to perfect our Recipe for Funeral Cake. These final touches elevate the moist, spiced layers with a smooth, creamy finish that honors tradition and pleases every palate.
Cooling the Cake
After baking, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for exactly 10 minutes. This rest time prevents breakage when removing the layers from the pans.
- Gently run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake.
- Carefully invert each pan onto a wire rack.
- Peel off the parchment or liner gently.
- Let the cakes cool completely, approximately 1 to 2 hours on wire racks.
Cooling the cake thoroughly is crucial. Frosting warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off, ruining the appearance and texture.
| Cooling Step | Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| In-pan cooling | 10 minutes | Prevents cake breakage |
| Wire rack cooling | 1 to 2 hours | Ensures cakes reach room temperature |
Making the Frosting
Our funeral cake frosting combines cream cheese and butter for a rich, tangy, and velvety complement to the spiced cake layers. Here’s how we prepare it:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until incorporated.
- Add vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk or cream.
- Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed—frosting should be spreadable but thick.
Frosting the Cake
Now that our cakes are completely cooled and frosting is ready, it’s time to assemble and frost:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board.
- Spread an even layer of frosting—about 1/3 of the total—over the top using an offset spatula.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top.
- Apply a thin crumb coat layer on the entire cake to seal in crumbs.
- Chill the crumb-coated cake for 20 minutes to set.
- Apply the remaining frosting smoothly over the top and sides.
- Optional: Sprinkle chopped nuts or leftover spice mix for subtle texture and extra flavor.
By following these steps, your funeral cake will present a beautiful, moist texture wrapped in a smooth frosting, embodying the heartfelt tradition it represents.
Decorating Tips
To enhance the visual appeal of the funeral cake while maintaining its traditional charm we follow these decorating tips carefully. This cake calls for a respectful yet inviting presentation that complements its rich flavor and meaningful history.
Preparing the Frosting Surface
- After the crumb coat chills completely in the refrigerator, apply the final frosting layer using a palette knife or offset spatula for smooth even coverage.
- Work gently to avoid tearing the cake surface and to maintain the cake’s moist texture.
- For a soft rustic look use swirling motions that add subtle texture without overworking the frosting.
Adding Traditional Decorative Elements
- Piping borders around the edges with a simple star or shell tip creates a classic finish.
- Use piping bags fitted with round or leaf tips to add delicate accents such as small rosettes or leaves.
- Incorporate simple floral designs or sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to evoke a natural respectful aesthetic.
- Use chopped nuts or a light dusting of spice (cinnamon or nutmeg) on the sides or top as a nod to the cake’s rich flavor profile.
Symbolic Decoration Ideas
| Symbol | Meaning | Decorating Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Cross | Faith and remembrance | Pipe a small cross on top using cream cheese frosting |
| Flowers (e.g. violets, lilies) | Peace and eternal life | Use fresh edible flowers or piped buttercream flowers |
| Ribbon | Unity and love | Wrap a satin ribbon around the cake base (remove before serving) |
Final Presentation Tips
- Serve the funeral cake on a simple white or pastel-colored platter to keep focus on the cake itself.
- Place a small vintage spoon or dessert fork beside each slice for a thoughtful touch.
- Maintain a calm serene atmosphere by pairing the cake with warm spiced tea or coffee to highlight its comforting flavor notes.
“A well-decorated funeral cake honors tradition and expresses care through both taste and appearance.”
Following these decorating guidelines ensures our funeral cake reflects the heartfelt nature of the occasion while offering a beautiful comforting dessert for all who gather.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage of our funeral cake ensures it stays as moist and flavorful as the moment we finished frosting it. Follow these steps to maintain freshness and texture for several days.
Short-Term Storage (Up to 3 Days)
- Cover the cake with a cake dome or place it in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Keep the cake away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Maintain a cool environment ideally between 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C).
Refrigeration (Up to 1 Week)
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing odors.
- Place in an airtight container or cake keeper before refrigerating.
- Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes to bring out the best texture and flavor.
Freezing (Up to 3 Months)
- Freeze the cake unfrosted for best results; wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- To freeze a frosted cake, place it in the freezer uncovered for 30 minutes until firm. Then, wrap gently with plastic wrap and foil.
- Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving.
| Storage Method | Ideal Temperature | Duration | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 65°F to 70°F (18°C-21°C) | Up to 3 days | Use airtight container |
| Refrigeration | 35°F to 40°F (1.6°C-4.4°C) | Up to 1 week | Wrap tightly to avoid odors |
| Freezing | 0°F (-18°C) | Up to 3 months | Wrap layers individually, thaw properly |
“Storing funeral cake correctly preserves its rich, spiced aroma and moist texture, allowing us to honor loved ones with every bite, even several days later.”
By following these Storage Instructions, we keep our funeral cake as comforting and delicious as tradition intends.
Serving Suggestions
To fully honor the tradition of the funeral cake and create a comforting atmosphere, serving it thoughtfully makes all the difference. Here are our go-to Serving Suggestions that enhance both the flavor and the sentimental value of this classic dessert.
Portioning the Cake
Cut the cake into generous slices about 1½ inches wide. This allows each piece to showcase the dense texture and rich spiced layers. Use a sharp serrated knife for clean cuts that preserve the cake’s shape.
Pairing Beverages
Pair the funeral cake with warm and soothing beverages to complement its deep flavors:
| Beverage | Notes |
|---|---|
| Hot black coffee | Balances the cake’s sweetness softly |
| Spiced chai tea | Enhances the cinnamon and clove aroma |
| Warm apple cider | Adds a festive fruit note to the palate |
| Milk (dairy or plant-based) | Soothes and mellows the spices |
Presentation Tips for Serving
- Serve on simple white or pastel plates to highlight the cake’s warm tones.
- Add a small dollop of whipped cream or a light drizzle of honey on the side for extra indulgence.
- Garnish each slice with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme, integrating the herbal touches used in decoration.
- Present the cake alongside a small bowl of dried fruits or nuts used in the recipe for a tactile experience.
Occasion Considerations
Funeral cake serves as a meaningful centerpiece for gatherings, so hosting the cake on a modest, elegant platter respects the tone of the occasion. Encourage guests to take their time savoring the cake, reflecting on memories and stories.
Storage Before Serving
If you prepare the cake in advance, allow it to come to room temperature before serving to bring out its full flavor and moist texture. Avoid chilling for long periods right before serving to maintain soft frosting and cake crumb.
“Serving the funeral cake with warmth and care turns a simple dessert into a symbol of comfort and remembrance.”
By combining careful portioning, complementary beverages, and thoughtful presentation, we create an experience that goes beyond flavor — connecting us deeply to tradition and those we honor.
Conclusion
Exploring the funeral cake recipe connects us to a rich tradition of comfort and remembrance. This spiced, dense cake offers more than just flavor—it carries a sense of history and togetherness during difficult times.
By mastering the preparation, baking, and decorating steps, we create a dessert that honors loved ones with care and respect. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed quietly, funeral cake remains a meaningful way to share memories and offer solace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is funeral cake and where does it come from?
Funeral cake is a traditional Southern dessert served at gatherings to honor loved ones who have passed away. It’s a spiced, dense cake symbolizing comfort and remembrance during times of loss.
What ingredients are needed to make funeral cake?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves), butter, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla, and optional nuts or dried fruits like dates or raisins. The frosting uses cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk or cream.
What equipment do I need to bake a funeral cake?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups, an electric mixer, 9-inch round cake pans, an oven thermometer, and wire racks for cooling.
How do I prepare the batter for funeral cake?
Cream butter and sugar until fluffy, add eggs and vanilla, then alternately mix dry ingredients with buttermilk. Fold in dried fruits if desired for added sweetness.
What is the baking temperature and time for funeral cake?
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the batter in two 9-inch pans for 50 to 60 minutes, avoiding opening the oven door in the first 40 minutes. Use the toothpick or touch test to check doneness.
How should I cool and frost the funeral cake?
Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto wire racks and cool completely for 1-2 hours before frosting. Apply a crumb coat, chill the cake, then add the final layer of cream cheese frosting.
What are some decorating ideas for funeral cake?
Use a palette knife to smooth frosting, pipe borders, and add simple floral designs or fresh herb sprigs. Symbolic touches like a piped cross or edible flowers add respectful meaning.
How do I store funeral cake properly?
For up to 3 days, keep covered at room temperature. Refrigerate wrapped tightly for up to 1 week. Freeze unfrosted layers wrapped well for up to 3 months; frost first and chill before freezing for best results.
What drinks pair well with funeral cake?
Warm beverages like hot black coffee, spiced chai tea, warm apple cider, or milk complement the cake’s spiced flavors perfectly.
Should funeral cake be served warm or cold?
Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavor and texture and provide the best eating experience.