Coventry Godcakes facts for kids
Coventry Godcakes are delicious baked treats from the city of Coventry, England. They are made from light, flaky puff pastry and filled with sweet mincemeat.
These unique cakes are shaped like a triangle with a right angle. They have three small cuts on top and are sprinkled with sugar. The triangular shape and the three cuts are said to represent the Holy Trinity, which is a Christian belief.
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What are Coventry Godcakes?
Coventry Godcakes are a special type of pasty. They are baked until golden brown. Inside, you'll find a tasty filling of sweet mincemeat. This mincemeat is often made with dried fruits, spices, and sometimes a little bit of suet.
The cakes are always shaped like a triangle. They are also known for the three small cuts on their top surface. These cuts, along with the triangle shape, are important symbols.
A Sweet New Year Tradition
For many years, Coventry Godcakes have been a special New Year tradition in Coventry. It was a custom for godparents to give these cakes to their godchildren.
Along with the Godcake, godparents would offer a blessing. This blessing was meant to bring good fortune for the year ahead. It was a lovely way to start the new year with family and friends.
Bringing Them Back to Life
The tradition of Coventry Godcakes faded over time. However, a local Blue Badge Tourist Guide named Leigh Waite became interested in them. Leigh also loved baking.
In 2010, Leigh received an old recipe for Godcakes. It was given to her by a local historian, David McGrory. Leigh decided to try baking them herself. She then sold them during the city's annual Heritage Open Weekend event. This helped to bring the Godcakes back into public attention.
The Official Re-launch
The Coventry Godcake was officially brought back in August 2012. A special celebration event took place at the Coventry Transport Museum. Important guests attended this event.
The Lord Mayor was there, along with members of the Coventry Mummers. The Mummers are a group who perform traditional folk plays. This re-launch helped to make the Coventry Godcake a well-known local treat once again.
