If you’re looking to add a touch of nostalgia to your baking repertoire and delight your loved ones with a cozy treat perfect for any time of the day, then you’re in for a treat with our recipe for delectable Rock Cakes. These rustic, old-fashioned goodies are easy to make and have a delightful combination of a crunchy exterior and a soft, crumbly interior. Let’s dive into making these simple yet delicious sweet treats that are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Recipe for Rock Cakes
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, chopped apricots, or any of your favorites)
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the cold, diced butter to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized lumps of butter remaining.
4. Stir in the mixed dried fruit, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
5. In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the egg. Add the milk, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, and whisk together until well combined.
6. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the egg mixture into it. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this may result in tough Rock Cakes.
7. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough into rough mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cake as they will expand slightly during baking.
8. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the Rock Cakes for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the edges and slightly firm to the touch.
9. Once baked, remove the Rock Cakes from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve these delightful Rock Cakes warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee for a truly cozy experience.
Enjoy these Rock Cakes as a delicious snack, a sweet addition to your afternoon tea, or as a delightful homemade gift for friends and family. They are perfect for sharing and are a wonderful way to add a touch of homemade charm to any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and get baking – these Rock Cakes are sure to become a beloved treat in your home!