Recipe For Funeral Cake is a traditional, dense, and moist fruitcake often served at wakes and memorials. Made with dried fruits, nuts, spices, and sometimes alcohol, it’s rich in flavor and meant to comfort mourners. This recipe honors heritage and provides a lasting, meaningful treat during times of remembrance and reflection.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your baking pan or line it with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula or whisk just until combined. Avoid over mixing to keep the cake tender.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and melted butter until smooth.
When the cake comes out of the oven, poke small holes all over the top using a skewer or fork. Pour the lemon glaze evenly over the hot cake so it soaks into the holes. Sprinkle the coconut flakes evenly over the top while the glaze is still wet.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
This recipe for funeral cake embraces tradition but remains flexible. If you want a dairy-free or vegan version, substitute buttermilk with almond milk and apple cider vinegar, and use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives.The recipe for funeral cake holds up well for a day or two when stored in an airtight container, perfect for gatherings that last.