guernseyandessert
Guernsey Rock Cakes
Traditional small spiced cakes with dried fruit, a classic teatime treat.
Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Servings
12
Difficulty
Easy
★★★★★
4.5(198 ratings)#cakes#baking#spiced#traditional#teatime
About This Recipe
Rock cakes are traditional Guernsey teatime favorites - small, craggy cakes studded with dried fruit and warm spices. They're quick to make and perfect with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
Serves 12
- 225 gself-raising flour
- 100 gbutter(cold, diced)
- 75 gmixed dried fruit
- 50 gdemerara sugar
- 1 tspmixed spice
- 1 egg(beaten)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare dry ingredients
Mix flour, sugar, spice, and dried fruit in a bowl.
- 2
Rub in butter
Add cold diced butter and rub in with fingertips until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- 3
Add egg
Stir in beaten egg until mixture just comes together.
- 4
Shape cakes
Drop rough spoonfuls onto greased baking sheet (they should look craggy).
- 5
Bake
Bake at 190°C for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Pro Tips
- →
Keep butter cold for best texture
- →
Don't overmix the mixture
- →
The craggy appearance is traditional
Variations
- •
Use different dried fruits
- •
Add a pinch of cinnamon
- •
Top with a drizzle of icing
Storage
Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
History & Origin
Rock cakes are a traditional British teatime treat, with the Guernsey version being particularly beloved on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are they called rock cakes?
Because of their craggy, lumpy appearance that resembles rocks.
Can I make them less sweet?
Reduce the sugar to 40g, though they may be less moist.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving · 12 servings total
Calories180kcal
Protein2g
Carbohydrates26g
Fat8g
Fiber1g
Protein2g
Carbs26g
Fat8g
Time Summary
Prep time15 min
Cook time15 min
Total time30 min
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