Welsh Cakes
Welsh Cakes Recipe from Wales with Self Raising Flour and Currants
Introduction
Welsh Cakes are a traditional treat hailing from Wales, known for their deliciously sweet and spiced flavor. These delightful little cakes are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, and make a great snack or dessert.
History
Welsh Cakes have been a beloved treat in Wales for centuries, with recipes being passed down through generations. They are often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions, and are a staple in Welsh cuisine.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Sift together the flour and salt, then rub in the butter.
- Stir in the sugar and the fruit.
- Whisk the egg and add it to the mixture.
- Knead the mixture until it forms a firm dough, adding a little milk if necessary.
- Roll out the dough to a thickness of 5 mm (0.25 inch) and cut it into circles measuring 7.5 cm (3 inches) in diameter.
- Place the circles onto a hot griddle or preheated heavy frying pan, and cook on each side, turning once, until they turn golden brown.
- Sprinkle each cake with sugar and place a small amount of butter on top.
- Serve the cakes on a hot dish.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Substitute raisins or currants for the sultanas for a different twist.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a sweet finish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to knead the dough until it forms a firm consistency, adding milk as needed to achieve the right texture.
- Cooking the cakes on a hot griddle or frying pan ensures they cook evenly and develop a nice golden brown color.
- Sprinkling sugar on top of the cakes while they are still warm adds a delicious sweet crunch.
- Serving the cakes with a small amount of butter on top enhances their rich flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy Welsh Cakes warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack or dessert.
Cooking Techniques
Cook the Welsh Cakes on a hot griddle or frying pan to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice golden brown color.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have self-raising flour, you can use all-purpose flour with baking powder added.
Make Ahead Tips
Welsh Cakes can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Welsh Cakes on a decorative plate with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Welsh Cakes with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a classic and comforting treat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Welsh Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Welsh Cakes contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Welsh Cakes contains approximately 25g of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Welsh Cakes contains approximately 10g of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Welsh Cakes contains approximately 3g of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Welsh Cakes are a good source of iron and calcium, providing essential nutrients for overall health.
Alergens
Welsh Cakes contain gluten, dairy, and eggs. They may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.
Summary
Welsh Cakes are a delicious treat that provide a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are a tasty snack or dessert option for those looking for a sweet treat.
Summary
Welsh Cakes are a delicious and traditional treat that are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. With their sweet and spiced flavor, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Welsh Cakes. It was a cold winter day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy home. Margaret was known for her delicious baked goods, and she had promised to teach me one of her favorite recipes that day.
As we sat in her warm kitchen, surrounded by the comforting scent of freshly baked bread, Margaret pulled out a worn recipe card from a small wooden box. The card was yellowed with age and covered in splatters of flour and butter, a testament to the many times it had been used.
"This, my dear, is the recipe for Welsh Cakes," Margaret said with a smile. "It's a traditional treat from Wales, made with simple ingredients but packed with flavor."
I eagerly leaned in as Margaret began to explain the steps to me. She told me that Welsh Cakes were a popular snack in Wales, often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. The recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, and she was delighted to share it with me.
The first step was to sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a large mixing bowl. Margaret carefully measured out each ingredient, her hands moving with practiced precision. She explained that the key to making perfect Welsh Cakes was to not overwork the dough, as it could make them tough and dry.
Next, Margaret added cold butter to the dry ingredients and began to rub it in with her fingertips. She showed me how to gently incorporate the butter into the flour mixture until it resembled coarse crumbs. The butter was crucial for giving the Welsh Cakes their rich, buttery flavor and tender texture.
Once the butter was fully incorporated, Margaret made a well in the center of the mixture and poured in a beaten egg and a splash of milk. She used a wooden spoon to mix everything together until a soft dough formed. The dough was then turned out onto a floured surface and rolled out to about half an inch thick.
Margaret took a round cookie cutter and cut out circles of dough, then transferred them to a hot griddle pan. She cooked the Welsh Cakes for a few minutes on each side until they were golden brown and cooked through. The kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked treats, and my mouth watered in anticipation.
As the Welsh Cakes cooled on a wire rack, Margaret dusted them with a sprinkle of sugar and cinnamon. She handed me a warm cake, still slightly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. I took a bite and was instantly transported to a cozy kitchen in a Welsh cottage, surrounded by loving family and friends.
From that day on, Welsh Cakes became a staple in my baking repertoire. I made them for special occasions, like birthdays and holidays, and they were always a hit with my family and friends. I shared the recipe with anyone who asked, just as Margaret had shared it with me, passing on a taste of tradition and love.
Over the years, I made my own tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding a touch of lemon zest or dried fruit for a personal touch. Each batch of Welsh Cakes was a labor of love, a connection to my dear friend Margaret and the memories we had shared in her kitchen.
As I sit here now, looking back on that cold winter day with Margaret, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of her friendship and the joy of cooking. The recipe for Welsh Cakes will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And whenever I bake a batch of Welsh Cakes, I am transported back to that moment of excitement and discovery, grateful for the tradition that has been passed down to me.
Categories
| Cake Recipes | Welsh Desserts | Welsh Recipes |