Rock cakes, also known as rock buns, are a classic British baked treat that is simple and quick to make. These cakes have a craggy and lumpy appearance, and they are loved for their delicious taste and nostalgic appeal. Rock cakes were particularly popular during the war when ingredients like eggs were rationed. They are still enjoyed today as a tasty tea time or lunch box treat. This easy rock cake recipe uses self-raising flour, butter, eggs, milk, and sultanas as the main ingredients. It can be customized with variations like different dried fruits and spices.
Rock cakes have an interesting history and have stood the test of time. They originated in Britain and gained popularity during the war due to their simplicity and economical nature. Despite their humble origins, rock cakes continue to be enjoyed by people all over the world. They are often associated with memories of baking in cookery classes or at home with family. These cakes are loved for their rustic appearance and satisfying texture. While they may not be as sweet as some other cakes, their unique flavor and versatility make them a favorite among both children and adults.
Rock Cake Recipe
Rock cakes have an interesting history and have stood the test of time. They originated in Britain and gained popularity during the war due to their simplicity and economical nature. Despite their humble origins, rock cakes continue to be enjoyed by people all over the world. They are often associated with memories of baking in cookery classes or at home with family. These cakes are loved for their rustic appearance and satisfying texture. While they may not be as sweet as some other cakes, their unique flavor and versatility make them a favorite among both children and adults.
Making Your Own Rock Cake Recipe
One of the best things about rock cakes is that you can easily make them at home with just a few basic ingredients. This recipe calls for self-raising flour, butter, caster sugar, sultanas, an egg, milk, and a combination of spices like mixed spice and cinnamon.
The method is straightforward, involving mixing the dry ingredients, rubbing in the butter, adding the wet ingredients, and stirring in the sultanas. The dough is then spooned onto a greased baking tray and baked until golden brown.
The recipe can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences by using different dried fruits or adding extra flavorings like citrus zest.
Ingredients
- 250g self-raising flour
- 125g unsalted butter, cubed
- 75g caster sugar
- 100g sultanas
- 1 egg, beaten
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon mixed spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking tray.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, mixed spice, and cinnamon together.
3. Add the cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Gently fold in the sultanas.
7. Spoon the dough onto the prepared baking tray, forming rough mounds.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the rock cakes are golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before serving.
Enjoy your homemade rock cakes as a delightful tea time treat or a special homemade gift!
Variations and Tips for Rock Cakes
If you’re looking to put a unique spin on the classic rock cake recipe, there are several variations and tips you can try. Whether you want to experiment with different flavors or follow the guidance of renowned British cook Delia Smith, here are some ideas to make your rock cakes stand out.
Using Plain Flour
While the traditional rock cake recipe calls for self-raising flour, you can use plain flour as a substitute if that’s all you have in your pantry. Just remember to add baking powder to ensure the cakes rise properly. This simple adaptation allows you to enjoy delicious rock cakes even when you don’t have self-raising flour on hand.
Adding Coconut
If you’re a fan of coconut, why not incorporate it into your rock cake recipe? You can either add desiccated coconut to the dough for a subtle coconut flavor or sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the cakes before baking to enhance the texture. This addition will give your rock cakes a tropical twist and make them even more delightful.
Substituting Dried Fruits
While sultanas are the traditional choice of dried fruit for rock cakes, you can experiment with other options to create new flavor combinations. Consider substituting some of the sultanas with dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or even diced apples. This versatility allows you to customize your rock cakes according to your personal taste preferences.
Inspired by Delia Smith
Delia Smith, a renowned British cook, has her own rock cake recipe that is highly regarded by home bakers. You may want to try her version for a delicious twist on the classic treat. Delia’s recipe typically includes a mix of sultanas and currants, as well as a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for a rich and aromatic flavor profile.
Embracing Old-Fashioned Flavors
If you’re longing for a taste of nostalgia, why not make your rock cakes with a blend of old-fashioned spices? Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to infuse your cakes with a warm and comforting flavor reminiscent of traditional baking. This combination of spices will transport you back in time with every bite.
With these variations and tips, you can elevate your rock cake game and create a batch of treats that will impress your family and friends. Whether you choose to experiment with different ingredients, follow the guidance of celebrated cooks like Delia Smith, or stick to the timeless flavors of old-fashioned rock cakes, the possibilities are endless. Get creative and enjoy the process of making these simple yet delicious treats!
Serving and Storing Rock Cakes
Rock cakes reach the peak of their deliciousness when enjoyed fresh out of the oven. The warm, slightly crisp exterior enhances the delectable taste, making this a delightful treat for any time of day. Whether you’re serving them as a delightful accompaniment to a cup of tea or as a satisfying snack between meals, rock cakes are sure to please.
If by chance you have any leftover rock cakes, fear not! You can store them in an airtight container for up to three days. While the texture may become slightly softer, they will still be enjoyable. It’s worth noting that refrigeration may cause the cakes to become drier, so it’s best to keep them at room temperature.
For those looking to prolong the enjoyment of these easy and delicious rock cakes, freezing is an excellent option. Simply wrap the cakes individually in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months without compromising their flavor. When you’re ready to indulge, you can either place them in a low oven to warm and crisp them up or defrost them in the refrigerator overnight.
| Serving and Storing Rock Cakes | |
|---|---|
| Storage | Duration |
| Room Temperature (Airtight Container) | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer (Individually Wrapped) | Up to 3 months |
| Reheating | Instructions |
| Oven | Place in low oven to warm and crisp up |
| Refrigerator | Defrost overnight |
Conclusion
Rock cakes are a beloved recipe with a rich history and a comforting taste. They are relatively easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you follow a traditional recipe or add your own unique twist, rock cakes are sure to bring joy to your tea time or snack breaks.
The memories associated with baking and enjoying these cakes make them even more special. Whether you use a recipe from a famous baker like Mary Berry or follow a family recipe passed down from your grandma, making rock cakes is a delightful way to indulge in a timeless treat.
FAQ
Why are they called rock cakes?
Rock cakes got their name because of their rustic and uneven appearance, which resembles rocks or boulders.
Can I use plain flour instead of self-raising flour?
Yes, you can use plain flour, but you will need to add baking powder to ensure the cakes rise properly.
Are there variations for rock cakes?
Yes, you can customize your rock cakes by adding different dried fruits like cherries or cranberries, or even adding ingredients like desiccated coconut for additional flavor and texture.
Can I freeze rock cakes?
Yes, you can freeze rock cakes for up to three months. Just wrap them in foil or store them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, place them in a low oven or defrost them in the refrigerator overnight.
Rock Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 250 g self-raising flour
- 125 g unsalted butter cubed
- 75 g caster sugar
- 100 g sultanas
- 1 egg beaten
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon mixed spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking tray.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, mixed spice, and cinnamon together.
- Add the cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk.
- Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Gently fold in the sultanas.
- Spoon the dough onto the prepared baking tray, forming rough mounds.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the rock cakes are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool before serving.
