Catholic Soul Cakes Recipe

What is All Souls' Day?

The feast of All Souls, observed on November 2nd, is a day when Catholics remember, honor, and pray for the faithful departed, especially those believed to be in purgatory. The Catholic Church teaches that purgatory is a temporary state of purification for souls who died in God's grace but still need cleansing to enter heaven. Prayers, Masses, and acts of charity offered by the living can help these souls on their journey to eternal peace in heaven.

Where Do Soul Cakes Come From?

The tradition of soul cakes is connected to medieval customs associated with All Souls' Day. People would bake and give out small cakes, often called “soul cakes,” in memory of the departed. These cakes would be offered to visitors or to the poor as they went “souling,” a practice in which people would go door to door, praying for the dead in exchange for food. The cakes were typically round and marked with a cross, symbolizing prayers for the souls in purgatory.

This tradition of giving soul cakes is a way for communities to pray for and remember the deceased, share in charity, and pass down Catholic beliefs about the communion of saints and the power of intercessory prayer. Although the practice of “souling” has mostly faded, baking and sharing soul cakes remains a meaningful way for us to connect with the festivity of All Souls’ Day and to remember that our prayers continue to support and bring comfort to the faithful departed.

Try My Recipe!

Here's a unique and delicious take on Soul Cakes that blends traditional elements with modern flavors. My version adds a touch of warmth and comfort, perfect for the season!

Orange Spice Soul Cakes with Honey-Maple Glaze

Ingredients:

For the cakes:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- ½ cup granulated sugar

- 1 tsp baking powder

- ½ tsp ground cinnamon

- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

- ¼ tsp ground cloves

- ¼ tsp ground ginger

- ½ tsp salt

- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

- 1 egg

- ½ cup milk

- Zest of 1 orange

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- ½ cup currants or raisins (optional)

For the Honey-Maple Glaze:

- ¼ cup honey

- 2 tbsp maple syrup

- 1 tbsp butter

- Pinch of cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Make the dough:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt.

- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

- Stir in the orange zest and currants (if using).

3. Wet ingredients:

- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract.

- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The dough should be soft but firm enough to roll out.

4. Shape the cakes:

- Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough out to about ½ inch thickness.

- Use a round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles.

- Place the cakes on the prepared baking sheet and score the tops with a cross pattern using a knife.

5. Bake:

- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

6. Glaze:

- While the cakes are baking, make the glaze by heating the honey, maple syrup, butter, and a pinch of cinnamon in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth.

- Once the cakes are done, brush the warm cakes with the glaze.

7. Serve:

- Allow the cakes to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm with tea or coffee.

These Orange Spice Soul Cakes offer a blend of old-world charm with the bright, refreshing flavor of orange and the warmth of spices, elevated with a luscious honey-maple glaze. Perfect for sharing on a cool autumn day!

Remember, the secret ingredient to liturgical living recipes is sharing in the fun with your friends and family. Happy baking and may your kitchen be filled with laughter and the delicious scent of soul cakes!