Soul cakes are a delicious and traditional part of Samhain and Halloween celebrations, tracing their origins to ancient rituals for honoring the dead. Let’s dive into the history of this sacred treat and then try a simple, authentic recipe you can make at home!
A Bit of Soul Cake History
Soul cakes have roots in medieval Britain, where they were traditionally baked and shared during Samhain and later All Souls’ Day on November 2nd. In a custom known as “souling,” the poor would go door-to-door offering prayers for the dead in exchange for soul cakes, symbolizing a pact: prayers for treats.
These cakes became a symbol of community and remembrance. Families would often leave them out on their ancestor altars, believing that each cake offered could free a soul from purgatory or ease their journey in the afterlife. Over time, this tradition evolved, blending with other customs to become part of Halloween.
Soul Cake Recipe
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 egg
2 tbsp milk
1/4 cup currants or raisins
Instructions
Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
Combine Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Stir in the milk and fold in the currants or raisins.
Shape and Bake: Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Flatten slightly, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and use the back of a spoon to make a cross on top of each cake.
Bake and Cool: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
Enjoy your soul cakes by sharing them with loved ones or leaving some on your altar as an offering for the spirits. These cakes are a reminder of our connection to the past, our ancestors, and the eternal cycle of life and death.