The aroma of warm butter, cinnamon, and spice fills the air as these golden-brown Soul Cakes emerge from the oven. They crumble just right—delicate yet firm, slightly sweet, with a whisper of ginger and nutmeg that lingers on your tongue. If you’ve never baked these before, you’re in for a treat.
Once an ancient tradition, Soul Cakes were baked to honor the departed on All Hallows’ Eve, given as offerings in exchange for prayers. Today, they’re making a comeback—not just for their history but for their irresistibly simple yet rich flavor.
These are the kind of rustic, homey treats that transport you to another time with every bite. And the best part? They pair beautifully with cozy fall favorites like Apple Crumb Pie and a steaming cup of Hot Chocolate.
Baking these is a breeze—no complex techniques, just a handful of pantry staples and a touch of old-world charm. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, Samhain, or just craving a warm spiced cookie, these soul cakes are a must-try. Try them once, and they just might become your new fall tradition.
What’s So Special About This Dish?
- It’s rich in history & meaning – There’s something special about baking a recipe that dates back centuries. It feels like keeping an old tradition alive.
- It’s simple yet full of flavor – With just a few ingredients, these cakes pack an incredible balance of warmth and sweetness.
- They’re perfect for fall gatherings – A tray of soul cakes on the table instantly creates that cozy, spiced autumn vibe.
- They store well – These stay fresh for days, making them a great make-ahead treat for the season.
- They go with EVERYTHING – Tea, coffee, or even a dollop of cream… they complement so many comforting fall flavors.
Soul Cakes Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or hand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Round cookie cutter
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Ingredients
- 300 g Plain flour all-purpose
- 120 g Butter softened
- 120 g Caster sugar plus extra for sprinkling
- 75 g Currants
- 2 Egg yolks large free-range
- 1½ teaspoons Baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon Mixed spice
- ¼ teaspoon Ground ginger
- 4 tablespoons Milk cow’s milk almond milk or oat milk
- ⅛ teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks and mix well, followed by the flour, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- Stir in the milk gradually until a soft dough forms, then fold in the currants.
- Roll out the dough to about 1 cm thickness and cut into rounds using a cookie cutter.
- Place the rounds on the baking sheet and sprinkle lightly with sugar.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea or Hot Chocolate.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 155kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Sugar | 9g |
| Sodium | 64mg |
Smart Tips For Perfect Soul Cakes!
- Chill the Dough for Better Texture – If you want a more delicate crumb, refrigerate the dough for 20 minutes before rolling it out. This prevents over-spreading and enhances the buttery flavor.
- Toast the Spices for Depth – Lightly toast the mixed spice and ginger in a dry pan for a few seconds before adding them to the dough. This intensifies their warmth and makes the flavors richer.
- Use Brown Sugar for a Deeper Flavor – Swapping half of the caster sugar for brown sugar gives the cakes a hint of caramel-like sweetness, making them even more indulgent.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough – Mix just until everything comes together. Overworking it can make the soul cakes dense instead of light and tender.
- Brush with a Bit of Honey or Milk Before Baking – This gives the soul cakes a slight sheen and enhances their golden color, making them look bakery-perfect.
- Pair with Something Creamy – A spoonful of clotted cream, mascarpone, or even lightly sweetened yogurt on the side takes these from simple treats to a next-level dessert.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
