Festivals

From Harvest Festivals to Soul Cakes: Exploring the traditions of Autumn after Halloween

Posted on by Steph Green

Samhain was the Celtic festival to mark the end of harvest festivals and the transition into the darker half of the year, we feel the encroaching darkness. Ancient traditions have been to embrace the joys of eating, drinking, and lighting bonfires. We find solace in creating rituals that hold a light for us. Whether it’s lanterns, pumpkins, or a simple candle on the table, each flicker symbolizes reverence and remembrance. A chance to take a light into the darkness. On All Soul’s Day (Thu, 2 Nov 2023) the time after Samhain, All Saints, Halloween – we take a moment to remember and cherish the memories of our loved ones who have passed away.

Here at WildED family we LOVE a great many things: but our passions are learning and living well. So what does that mean? Well to us thats seasonal living. Practically that means meditation and pray in tune with the seasons, lots of walks and crafting, of course, and it also means theres LOTS of cooking! Which is good because I love it!

On All Souls day one lovely tradition is to make Soul Cakes – simple buns with a touch of spice. You can eat them by candlelight and share memories of family and friends who have touched our lives. Or like us you can have a table top for photos of loved ones. We always add a drink for the people that have passed away along with some bucuits! In Latin america there is a custom to lay an extra place at the table! You can celebrate however fits your family – but I do think its beautiful to slow down and make time to remeber them.

One intriguing aspect of the food this time of year is “Sin-Eating and Soul-Caking.” The old English custom of souling or soul caking is thought to date back to the tenth century or even pagan times. The soul cakers would go from house to house singing either a begging song or a plea for prayers for the dead. Children and adults would go “Souling,” visiting the houses of the wealthiest families, offering prayers for departed loved ones in exchange for soul cakes. Masks and disguises added an air of mystery to the proceedings, culminating some might sy in what we now know as “Trick or Treat” although I know of at least three other tales of where the sugar obsession came from!

The concept of symbolically consuming someone’s sins, particularly those who had passed without confession, was an actual profession throughout history. The last “Sin-Eater,” Richard Munslow, practiced this unique role until 1906. Interestingly, on All Souls’ Day, a non-professional version called “Soul-caking” took place, accompanied by a traditional rhyme that resonated with children.

A soul, a soul, a soul-cake!

Please good Missus, a soul-cake

Aan apple, a pear, a plum or a cherry

Any good thing to make us all merry,

One for Peter, two for Paul,

Three for him that made us all.

Cake, bread, and biscuits play a significant role in celebrations, with each region having its own unique recipe. From soul mass loaves in Whitby to oatmeal-based cakes in Hereford, the variations are as diverse as the communities that hold them dear.

Traditional Shropshire Soul Cakes Recipe 🍰

Here’s a traditional recipe for Shropshire Soul Cakes, a delicious treat baked on All Souls’ Day as part of the remembrance tradition.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 3 and 1/2 cups of flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon of allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup of butter, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
  • 4 tablespoons of milk
  • 1 cup of currants or raisins

Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the sugar, flour, and spices.
  3. Rub in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
  4. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Save a tiny bit for glazing the cakes later, then add the rest to the flour mixture.
  5. Add vinegar to the milk, then combine this with the flour and egg mixture. Stir well until you have a firm dough.
  6. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into rounds using a cookie cutter.
  7. Place the rounds on the baking sheet, press a handful of currants or raisins into each one, and brush with the reserved beaten egg for glaze.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Enjoy your Shropshire Soul Cakes by candlelight, remembering loved ones and creating new memories.

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Steph Green