Are you looking to add a touch of traditional British charm to your Christmas baking repertoire this year? Look no further than the delightful Parkin Cake. Originating from the United Kingdom, Parkin Cake is a beloved treat often enjoyed during the festive season. With its warm, spicy flavors and moist texture, this cake is sure to become a holiday favorite in your home. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking!
**Parkin Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 250g medium oatmeal
– 250g plain flour
– 250g golden syrup
– 250g butter
– 250g soft dark brown sugar
– 2 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 200ml milk
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F) and grease a square baking tin, approximately 20x20cm, or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the medium oatmeal and plain flour. Set this dry mixture aside for now.
3. In a saucepan, gently heat the golden syrup, butter, soft dark brown sugar, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg over low heat. Stir continuously until the butter and sugar have melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Remove the syrup mixture from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
5. In a small bowl, dissolve the bicarbonate of soda in 2 tablespoons of boiling water. Add this mixture to the slightly cooled syrup.
6. Make a well in the centre of the dry mixture and pour in the cooled syrup mixture. Add the beaten eggs and milk. Mix everything together until well combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake the Parkin Cake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour until it is firm to the touch and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. For the best flavor and texture, wrap the cooled Parkin Cake in parchment paper and store it in an airtight container for a day or two before serving. This will allow the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully.
11. Serve slices of Parkin Cake with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy Christmas treat that will evoke memories of old-fashioned holiday gatherings.
Enjoy this delightful Parkin Cake with friends and family this holiday season. The warm spices and comforting texture are sure to make it a festive favorite. Happy baking!
