Heavy cake facts for kids
| Alternative names | Hevva cake |
|---|---|
| Type | Cake |
| Place of origin | United Kingdom |
| Region or state | Cornwall |
| Main ingredients | Flour, lard, butter, milk, sugar, raisins |
Heavy cake, also known as Hevva cake (which is Hevva in the Cornish language), is a special cake from Cornwall, a county in England. It's made with simple ingredients like flour, lard, butter, milk, sugar, and raisins. This tasty treat has a unique history connected to Cornwall's past.
Contents
What is Heavy Cake?
Heavy cake is a flat, round cake, usually about half an inch thick. It has a special pattern on top, like criss-crossing lines. These lines are scored into the dough before baking.
The Fishing Net Pattern
The criss-cross pattern on top of a Heavy cake is not just for looks. It's meant to remind people of fishing nets. This design connects the cake to Cornwall's strong history of fishing.
The Story Behind the Name
The name "Heavy cake" or "Hevva cake" comes from the old pilchard fishing industry in Cornwall. Pilchards are a type of fish, similar to sardines.
The "Hevva!" Shout
Before the 1900s, people called "huers" would stand on cliffs overlooking the sea. Their job was to spot large groups of pilchards, called shoals. When a huer saw fish, they would shout "Hevva! Hevva!" This shout told the fishing boats where to go.
Cornish tradition says that huers would bake Hevva cakes when they returned home. The cakes would be ready by the time the fishing crews came back to land. It was a warm, welcoming treat after a long day at sea.
Why "Heavy"?
Another idea about the name "Heavy cake" is simpler. It's called "heavy" because it's a dense cake. It doesn't rise a lot like some other cakes or breads made with yeast. This makes it a filling and satisfying snack.
