Rock Cakes

Story behind the dish

Rock cakes have a charming history as hearty, rustic treats enjoyed in Britain. Named for their rugged, uneven appearance that resembles small, edible stones, these cakes are wonderful for casual gatherings, picnic baskets, or whenever you crave something sweet and satisfying. The warm aroma of freshly baked rock cakes filling your kitchen can instantly evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort, making them a beloved classic.

Baking these delightful morsels is a simple joy—perfect for both seasoned bakers and novice cooks alike. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be rewarded with lovely, golden-brown treats that are as tasty as they are visually charming.

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups (225 g) self-raising flour
• 1/3 cup (75 g) caster sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup (125 g) unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup (150 g) dried fruit (such as raisins, currants, or sultanas)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Step-by-step

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the self-raising flour, caster sugar, and baking powder. Rub in the cubed butter with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Stir in the dried fruit.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and milk together with the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a spoon, stir until just combined into a thick, lumpy dough. If the mixture feels too dry and won't stick together, add an extra teaspoon of milk.
5. Using a spoon, scoop out golf ball-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking tray. Leave some space between each, as they will spread and flatten out during baking.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rock cakes turn a lovely golden-brown.
7. Once baked, let the cakes cool on the tray for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For added flavor, sprinkle a little extra sugar on top of the dough before baking.
• Serve these rock cakes warm with a dollop of clotted cream, a drizzle of honey, or a cup of tea for a cozy treat.

Closing thoughts

Baking rock cakes is like creating edible treasures—simple, rustic, and undeniably delicious. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a comforting snack during a lazy afternoon. For a bit of extra charm, consider adding chopped nuts or your favorite dried fruits. Whip up a batch and enjoy the sweet reward of your baking journey!