Funeral Cakes

What came to be called funeral cakes in the U.S. began across the pond, possibly dating all the way back to the Vikings—but definitely back to the Victorians, who gave "funeral biscuits" to friends and family both as an invitation to the service and a memento of it. 

Southern Heritage Cakes explains our regional interpretation of this European tradition: "Every housekeeper had a certain recipe she could turn out at a moment's notice. And, although not every cook was frank enough to call that recipe a "Funeral Cake," some did. It was to be baked in the caring tradition we still observe, taking food to the home of a bereaved family."

Learn how to make funeral cakes. Our simple recipe is both kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing, the perfect pairing for hot tea or coffee.

Ingredients for Funeral Cakes

Funeral cakes come together quickly for fluffy cakes that bake up in under 15 minutes, using pantry staples to boot. To make funeral cakes, you'll need:

• Cooking spray: Prevents the cakes from sticking to the pan.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cakes.
• All-purpose flour: Gives the cakes structure.
• Baking powder: Leavening agent that lifts the batter.
• Table salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Large eggs: Binds the batter.
• Whole milk: For a tender crumb.
• Salted butter: Adds richness and flavor.
• Vanilla extract: For depth of flavor.
• Sifted powdered sugar: Dusted over the cooled cakes for a lightly sweetened garnish.

How To Make Funeral Cakes

A quick whisk and this easy, vanilla-scented batter will be ready to portion into muffin pans. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Make batter: Spray to coat muffin pans, or grease with butter. Stir together dry ingredients in a large bowl. Stir in eggs, milk, and butter. Stir in vanilla.
• Step 2. Add to pan: Portion into pans, filling halfway.
• Step 3. Bake cakes: Bake until a wooden pick inserted in centers comes out clean, 12 to 14 minutes.
• Step 4. Cool and finish: Unmold cakes and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

How Far Ahead Can I Make Funeral Cakes?

These cakes can be made up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Leftover cakes can be stored for up to five days at room temperature, or freeze for longer storage. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe zip-top bag, and they'll stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. Bring to room temperature before serving.

The Best Way To Transport Funeral Cakes

When transporting food (particularly cakes), you want to make sure everything arrives in perfect condition. Keep these tips in mind when transporting these funeral cakes:

• Choose the right container: Whether you opt for a special cupcake carrier, a baking pan, or shallow box, the best container when gifting food items is one you won't need back.
• Pack tightly: To keep the funeral cakes from jostling around during transport, pack tightly or buffer the sides of the carrier with tissue paper if needed.
• Wrap or cover: Make sure to cover or wrap the container tightly to keep the funeral cakes from drying out.
• Place onto a flat surface: While your lap might seem like the best place for the cakes, choose a spot in the car that won't be in the way and that has a flat surface. Placing the container on the floor or in the trunk will keep the cakes from moving around unnecessarily during transport.

More Comforting Recipes You'll Love

Southern funeral food is all about providing comfort. Whether savory or sweet, these dishes are staples in times of grieving:

• Funeral Potatoes
  
• Classic Macaroni and Cheese
• Ham Biscuits
• Ben Mims' Perfect Cornbread
• Ham and Noodle Casserole
• Hot Spinach-Artichoke Dip
• Cheesy Broccoli-and-Rice Casserole
  
• Chocolate Mayonnaise Sheet Cake
• Best Brown Butter Blondies
• Salted Caramel Banana Pudding

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.