Zuckerkuchen: The German Funeral Cake

Zuckerkuchen.
(Credit: www.shelikes.de/2014/08/butterkuchen-20-super-saftig-und-ohne.html)

The mention of German food may entice images of bratwurst, beer and sauerkraut galore – but there’s one specialty from Deutschland that holds a special place amongst its inhabitants because it represents the inextricable bond between life and death. Sound like a lot of pressure for a bit of food? Well, the delicacy in question, Zuckerkuchen (sometimes Butterkuchen), lives up to the hype.

“…one specialty from Deutschland holds a special place amongst its inhabitants because it represents the inextricable bond between life and death.”

Credit: cookteen.com

Zuckerkuchen (or “sugar cake” in English) is a remarkable little pastry because it is served at both weddings and funerals. This may seem like an insignificant detail, but think about it: what are the associations you have with funerals? Black? White flowers? Often, the main association we have with funeral or memorial events are intangible – feelings of sadness or pain – and seldom of an indulgent food item. Weddings create sentimental memories, too, but they’re also accompanied by memories of good decorations and food. Traditional “western” funerals are usually austere, which is why the idea of having a small element that can change that atmosphere is exciting. Zuckerkuchen belongs to both joy and sadness, to life and death – it suggests that we ought to start looking at the natural, healthy relationship between the two. Amongst Germans, Zuckerkuchen is often called “Freude-und-Leid-Kuchen” (Joy-and-Sorrow cake) or Beerdigungskuchen (“funeral cake”) because of its dual nature.

“Zuckerkuchen is often called “Freude-und-Leid-Kuchen” (Joy-and-Sorrow cake) or Beerdigungskuchen (“funeral cake”) because of its dual nature.”

Bremen.
(credit: cubicmatter.net)

Zuckerkuchen is simple enough: first you spread dough out over a baking sheet, sprinkle it with a hefty amount of butter and sugar, knead it, then put it in the oven (sometimes it’s garnished with almonds). It’s hard to say where the “funeral” cake finds its specific origins, but it’s particularly prominent in Bremen and Westphalia.

Why not bring some sweetness to the reflection encompassing a memorial or funeral ceremony? Try this recipe from Quick German Recipes to make your own Zuckerkuchen.

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