Embracing Life's Sweetness: The History and Tradition of Texas Funeral Sheet Cake
Deep in the heart of Texas, where history and culture intertwine, a sweet tradition has provided solace to grieving hearts for generations: the Texas Funeral Sheet Cake. This delightful creation, steeped in history and a touch of Texan charm, has become a symbol of comfort and remembrance at funeral gatherings throughout the state. Join us as we uncover the fascinating history, ingredients, and significance of this beloved confection.
The Origins of Texas Funeral Sheet Cake
The precise origin of the Texas Funeral Sheet Cake remains veiled in mystery, much like the comforting embrace it offers to mourners. Some suggest it hails from traditional Southern recipes, while others speculate its roots trace back to German chocolate cakes, cherished by early Texan settlers. Regardless of its true heritage, this cake has evolved into an integral part of Texan culture and a symbol of empathy and community.
The Ingredients That Bind Us Together
A Texas Funeral Sheet Cake is a humble masterpiece, uniting a handful of simple ingredients that yield a taste that's nothing short of divine. Flour, sugar, cocoa, and butter serve as the foundational elements, while buttermilk, eggs, and a hint of vanilla extract impart depth and richness. The secret to its decadence lies in the smooth, velvety frosting, typically crafted from powdered sugar, cocoa, butter, and pecans, resulting in a mouthwatering sensation.
The Sweet Reason Behind Sugar and Cakes for Funerals
Throughout history, sugar has symbolized comfort and solace. The incorporation of sugar into funeral customs spans centuries, with diverse cultures attributing it the power to sweeten life's bitter moments. Cakes, often associated with celebration, were eventually integrated into funeral gatherings as a means to honor and commemorate the departed. In the case of the Texas Funeral Sheet Cake, this sweet indulgence acts as a tangible reminder of life's fleeting sweetness.
The Portability and Generosity of Sheet Cakes
One of the primary reasons behind the enduring popularity of the Texas Funeral Sheet Cake is its practicality. Its rectangular shape and sturdy, moist texture render it easily transportable to gatherings, an essential consideration in the sprawling expanse of Texas. Furthermore, sheet cakes can be sliced into ample portions, ensuring there's plenty to share among a crowd. In times of grief, the act of sharing food takes on profound significance, fostering a sense of community and support.
The Comforting Presence of Cake at a Funeral
Cake, whether adorned with vibrant, joyful decorations or as unadorned as the Texas Funeral Sheet Cake, plays a pivotal role in the healing process. It offers a brief respite from the weight of sorrow, allowing mourners to exchange stories, reminisce, and find solace in the presence of loved ones. In essence, the act of breaking bread—or in this case, cake—creates a shared experience that alleviates the pain of loss.
In the rich tapestry of Texan traditions, the Texas Funeral Sheet Cake is a thread that unites communities during their most vulnerable moments. Its history, straightforward yet exquisite ingredients, and the comfort it provides are testimonials to the enduring power of food to nurture not only our bodies but also our souls. So, the next time you find yourself amidst a Texan funeral gathering, take a moment to savor a slice of this beloved cake, and you'll understand why it's more than just dessert—it's a sweet reminder of the indomitable spirit of Texas.
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Ingredients
VEGAN CHOCOLATE SHEET CAKE
1 ½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar, or regular vinegar
1 cup soy milk, or other vegan milk (240mL), room temperature
2 cups brown sugar, or cane sugar (400g)
3 cups all-purpose flour, (360g)
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, (80g)
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon sea salt
¾ cup oil, (150g)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup warm milk (240mL) + 1 teaspoon instant coffee, mix in until dissolved – stir these together right before you need them so the milk is still warm
VEGAN CHOCOLATE FROSTING
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup unsalted vegan butter, (softened) or salted, but don't use the sea salt below
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch of sea salt
2 ½-3 cups powdered sugar
⅓ cup vegan milk, (+ 1 tablespoon extra if needed)
Directions
FOR THE CAKE
Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C. Prepare a 9×13 sheet pan (with sides) by greasing & flouring or lining with parchment paper (I usually just grease and flour).
In a jar, add the vinegar and room temperature vegan milk together to curdle to form a buttermilk. Set aside.
In a large bowl, add the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and sea salt. Using a whisk, whisk all the ingredients together, removing any clumps that may form.
Add in the oil, the buttermilk mix from earlier and the vanilla extract.
Heat up that additional milk in the microwave for 40 seconds (or on stove top until warm not boiling). You want it warm enough to dissolve but not boiling. Stir the instant coffee into it with a whisk or fork to dissolve for about 15 seconds.
Add it to the bowl on top of everything. Beat on medium speed of electric mixer for no more than 1 minute on medium speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl once in between to ensure that everything is incorporated. You want to mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the pan. Tap on the counter three times lightly to remove any air bubbles.
Place the pan in the middle rack of your oven and in the center of that rack. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until fully baked. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
After cooled, frost with chocolate frosting and sprinkles (optional!) Enjoy! For an even more moist cake, brush with simple syrup before putting on the frosting!
FOR THE FROSTING
Add the cocoa powder, vegan butter, 2 1/2 cups of the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, sea salt and half the vegan milk to the bowl of an electric stand mixer or a hand mixer. Start mixing it together at slow speed, gradually increasing speed until it’s very thick and smooth. Add the 1/2 cup of the extra powdered sugar at a time until it reaches your desired thickness and consistency. If needed, add in the other half of the milk about 1 tablespoon at a time.