If you're passionate about baking and looking for an easy yet delicious recipe, rock cakes might be the perfect treat for you. Known for their rugged, rock-like appearance, these traditional British biscuits are not only simple to bake but also delightful to eat. This rock cake recipe is designed to be straightforward, ensuring that even baking novices can whip up a batch with confidence. Let's dive into the world of rock cakes and explore how you can make these charming treats at home.
Ingredients
- 225g self-raising flour
- 110g cold butter, cut into small cubes
- 85g sugar (caster or granulated)
- 110g mixed dried fruit (sultanas, currants, or raisins)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp mixed spice or cinnamon (optional)
- 1 medium egg
- 1-2 tbsp milk
🍪 Note: Use self-raising flour for the best results; if you don't have it, add 2 tsp of baking powder to plain flour.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / Gas Mark 6.
- Prepare the Baking Tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and mixed spice (if using). Add the sugar and mix well.
- Rub in the Butter: Add the cold butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add the Fruit: Stir in the dried fruit until evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg with the milk, reserving a little milk for glazing. Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients.
- Form the Dough: Mix the ingredients until you form a rough dough. Don't overmix; the texture should be crumbly yet able to hold together.
- Shape the Cakes: Take spoonfuls of the dough and drop them onto the prepared baking tray. These are meant to look rustic, so shaping can be imperfect.
- Glaze and Bake: Brush the tops with the reserved milk for a golden finish. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool: Allow the rock cakes to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
| Ingredient | Substitutes or Alternatives |
|---|---|
| Self-raising Flour | Plain flour + 2 tsp baking powder |
| Butter | Margarine or vegetable shortening |
| Mixed Fruit | Chopped dates, cherries, or nuts |
| Milk | Cream or plant-based milk alternatives |
🍳 Note: Adding a little extra flour can help manage a dough that's too wet or sticky.
After following these steps, you'll have your own homemade batch of rock cakes ready to enjoy. They're perfect for tea time, school snacks, or simply when you crave something sweet and crumbly. Remember, the beauty of rock cakes lies in their irregular shapes, making them an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned bakers.
Summary
This rock cake recipe provides a traditional yet accessible way to explore baking. With a straightforward list of ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you can achieve success even if you're new to the baking scene. The adaptability of rock cakes to various flavors and additions like nuts or chocolate chips makes them a versatile treat for any occasion.
Can I freeze rock cakes?
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Yes, you can freeze rock cakes. Once they are completely cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or reheat in a low-temperature oven.
How long do rock cakes stay fresh?
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Stored in an airtight container, rock cakes can last for up to a week at room temperature.
Can I use this recipe for gluten-free baking?
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Yes, you can adapt this recipe for gluten-free baking by using gluten-free self-raising flour. Be sure to check all ingredients for gluten content as some dried fruits might contain traces of gluten.
