Recipe for funeral cake is a rich, old-fashioned chocolate sheet cake loved for its soft texture, deep cocoa flavor, and smooth chocolate icing that melts gently into the warm cake.
The taste is wonderfully moist, buttery, and slightly sweet, finished with a light hint of cinnamon for extra warmth.
Discovering new recipes is my real job, and this recipe for funeral cake has become one of my favorite traditional desserts because it always delivers excellent results.
The specialty comes from the warm icing poured over the freshly baked cake. Chopped pecans, walnuts, toasted coconut, or chocolate chips make delicious additions. Now I will show this recipe step by step.
About This Recipe For Funeral Cake
This recipe for funeral cake has a rich chocolate flavor balanced by buttery goodness and a soft, moist crumb. The warm chocolate icing soaks lightly into the freshly baked cake, creating a smooth, fudgy layer that makes every slice tender and delicious.
A gentle touch of cinnamon adds subtle warmth without taking away from the chocolate. The sweetness is well balanced, making the dessert enjoyable for both children and adults.
The texture stays light while remaining wonderfully moist, giving this classic cake a comforting homemade taste that keeps everyone coming back for another slice.
How To Prepare Recipe For Funeral Cake?
To help you bake this recipe for funeral cake successfully, I have explained every stage in a clear and easy way. You’ll also find a helpful list of kitchen tools used for this recipe for funeral cake.
Use the equipment you already have, follow the simple directions, and enjoy a rich, moist chocolate cake with smooth homemade icing.
Recipe Overviews
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Cooking Style: Baking
Dish Type: Chocolate Sheet Cake
Season: Perfect all year round, especially fall, winter, holidays, family gatherings, and special occasions.
Yield: 16 servings
Serving Size: 1 slice
Kitchen Utensils
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Cooling rack
- Offset spatula or butter knife
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Icing
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick baking spray and set it aside.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and ground cinnamon. Whisk everything together until the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 3:
Place the butter, cocoa powder, and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the butter has completely melted and the mixture begins to simmer. Remove the pan from the heat.
Step 4:
Slowly pour the warm cocoa mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until no dry flour remains and the batter becomes smooth.
Step 5:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until well combined. Fold this mixture into the chocolate batter and stir just until everything is fully incorporated.
Step 6:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 7:
While the cake is baking, prepare the icing. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk until smooth. Remove from the heat, then gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the icing is creamy and lump-free.
Step 8:
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm chocolate icing evenly over the hot cake. Spread it gently with a spatula so it covers the entire surface. Let the cake cool for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts Of Recipe For Funeral Cake
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 calories |
| Carbohydrates | 63 grams |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Fat | 22 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 13 grams |
| Sugar | 50 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 0.17 grams |
| Cholesterol | 0.065 grams |
How It Works
This recipe for funeral cake works by combining a warm butter, cocoa, and water mixture with the dry ingredients, creating a smooth batter that bakes into a soft and tender cake.
Sour cream adds moisture and richness, while eggs provide structure and help the cake rise beautifully. A small amount of cinnamon brings gentle warmth to the chocolate flavor.
The freshly made chocolate icing is poured over the hot cake, allowing it to spread easily and soak slightly into the surface. This method creates a moist crumb and a smooth, fudgy topping in every slice.
Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?
This recipe for funeral cake is a must-try because it delivers rich chocolate flavor, a soft and moist crumb, and a silky cocoa icing using simple pantry ingredients.
The recipe for funeral cake is easy to prepare, making it suitable for both first-time bakers and experienced home cooks. It bakes in one pan, serves plenty of people, and slices neatly for sharing.
The cake stays tender for days, making it a great make-ahead dessert. The hint of cinnamon adds extra character, creating a classic homemade treat that family and friends will happily enjoy again and again.
Expert Baking Tips
1. Measure the flour correctly. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag to keep the cake light and tender.
2. Bring the eggs and sour cream to room temperature. They blend more smoothly into the batter and help create an even texture.
3. Do not let the cocoa mixture boil for long. Heat it just until the butter melts and the mixture begins to simmer, and then remove it from the heat.
4. Mix only until the batter is combined. Over mixing can make the cake less soft and reduce its tender crumb.
5. Check for doneness a few minutes before the baking time ends. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
6. Spread the icing while the cake is still warm. The warm surface helps the icing flow evenly and creates a smooth, glossy finish.
7. Allow the cake to cool before slicing. Giving the icing time to set results in cleaner slices and a better texture.
Serving Ideas
Serve recipe for funeral cake slightly warm or completely cooled for the best texture. Pair a slice with freshly brewed coffee, hot tea, or a glass of cold milk for a comforting dessert.
Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. A spoonful of whipped cream creates a light, creamy finish.
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the icing for extra crunch. Cut the cake into small squares for potlucks, family dinners, birthday parties, holiday tables, bake sales, or afternoon dessert trays.
When To Serve
This recipe for funeral cake can be served at family gatherings, church dinners, memorial receptions, birthdays, holiday celebrations, weekend meals, potlucks, bake sales, and neighborhood get-togethers.
It also makes a comforting dessert after a home-cooked dinner or during afternoon coffee breaks. Since the cake stays moist for several days, it is an excellent choice for preparing in advance before hosting guests.
Serve recipe for funeral cake slightly warm for a soft, fudgy icing or at room temperature after the topping has fully set. A glass of cold milk, hot coffee, or tea pairs beautifully alongside a slice.
Ways To Make It Extra Delicious
➤ Fold ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter for pockets of melted chocolate throughout the cake.
➤ Sprinkle ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts over the warm icing to add a rich, crunchy texture.
➤ Stir 1 teaspoon espresso powder into the cocoa mixture to deepen the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
➤ Mix ½ cup toasted coconut flakes into the icing or scatter them on top for a lightly sweet, nutty finish.
➤ Decorate the iced cake with chocolate curls or mini chocolate chips after the icing has been spread for extra chocolate flavor and an attractive presentation.
Storage Instructions
Allow the recipe for funeral cake to cool completely before storing to keep the icing smooth and prevent excess moisture. Cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or transfer slices to an airtight container.
Store at room temperature for up to 2 days in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Let chilled slices sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best texture. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called funeral cake?
The cake is commonly served at family gatherings, church meals, and memorial receptions in many communities because it is easy to prepare, feeds a large group, and travels well.
Can I freeze funeral cake?
Yes. Allow the cake to cool completely, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Why should the icing be poured over a warm cake?
Pouring the icing over the warm cake helps it spread easily and creates a smooth layer that lightly settles into the surface.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes. Chopped pecans or walnuts are popular additions and can be mixed into the icing or sprinkled over the top before it sets.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready to remove from the oven.
Conclusion
This recipe for funeral cake is one of my favorite homemade chocolate desserts because it is rich, soft, moist, and always turns out beautifully. I have made this recipe several times, and every time my family and guests truly enjoy it.
The smooth chocolate icing and tender cake make every slice memorable. I love sharing this easy method because recipe for funeral cake uses simple ingredients and delivers wonderful results.
I hope this recipe for funeral cake inspires you to bake it in your own kitchen, enjoy it with your loved ones, and create many happy memories around the table.
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Recipe For Funeral Cake
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan,
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Cooling rack
- Offset spatula or butter knife
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Icing
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick baking spray and set it aside.
Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and ground cinnamon. Whisk everything together until the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 3:
- Place the butter, cocoa powder, and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the butter has completely melted and the mixture begins to simmer. Remove the pan from the heat.
Step 4:
- Slowly pour the warm cocoa mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until no dry flour remains and the batter becomes smooth.
Step 5:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until well combined. Fold this mixture into the chocolate batter and stir just until everything is fully incorporated.
Step 6:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 7:
- While the cake is baking, prepare the icing. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk until smooth. Remove from the heat, then gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the icing is creamy and lump-free.
Step 8:
- As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm chocolate icing evenly over the hot cake. Spread it gently with a spatula so it covers the entire surface. Let the cake cool for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Recipe For Funeral Cake
Calories: 460 calories | Carbohydrates: 63 grams | Protein: 4 grams | Fat: 22 grams | Saturated Fat: 13 grams | Sugar: 50 grams | Fiber: 2 grams | Sodium: 0.17 grams | Cholesterol: 0.065 gramsHello and welcome to All Recipe Make! I’m Julia, the creator behind this food and lifestyle blog, and I’m so glad you’re here. With four years of experience developing recipes, I love crafting dishes that are delicious, fun, and nourishing. Here, you’ll discover a wide range of recipes from vegan and gluten-free options to simple, budget-friendly meals. My aim is to help you bring something special to your table without spending a fortune. Thanks for stopping by I hope you enjoy exploring these recipes as much as I enjoy creating and sharing them!