I have a delightful treat for you – my take on Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes. These little beauties are the epitome of comfort food, boasting a crispy exterior, the perfect amount of sweetness, and a medley of fruity and nutty flavors that make them incredibly addictive. Trust me; once you try these, you’ll find it hard to resist making them over and over again!
How to Make Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes Overview
This Mary Berry Rock Cakes recipe yields approximately 12 rock cakes and takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and baking time. These rock cakes are ideal for sharing with loved ones over a cozy cup of tea or coffee. They make a delightful addition to picnics, afternoon tea, or a simple dessert after dinner.
Also Try: Mary Berry Marmalade Cake: A Delightful Recipe for Moist and Fluffy Cake Lovers
Ingredients:
- 275 grams of self-rising flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 125 grams of softened butter
- 75 grams of granulated sugar
- 125 grams of mixed dried fruit
- 75 grams of currants
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons of milk
- Demerara sugar for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease two baking trays or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and baking powder. Add the softened butter, and using your fingertips, rub it into the flour mixture until you achieve a crumbly texture.
- Add Sweetness: Stir in the granulated sugar along with the mixed dried fruit and currants. Mix them evenly into the crumbly mixture.
- Create the Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Then, pour this mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, ensuring all the ingredients come together to form a sticky, fruity dough.
- Shape and Arrange: Using your hands or two spoons, shape the dough into approximately 12 equal-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking trays, leaving some space between each one.
- Final Touch: Sprinkle each rock cake generously with Demerara sugar. This will give them a delightful crunch and a sweet topping.
- Bake to Perfection: Pop the trays into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the rock cakes turn a beautiful golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
Nutritional Value (per serving):
Calories: 190
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 13g
FAQs:
Can I freeze Mary Berry Rock Cakes?
Yes, you can freeze Mary Berry Rock Cakes. Once they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They should stay good in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the oven at a low temperature.
Can I customize the dried fruit in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the dried fruit mix. You can use a combination of raisins, sultanas, chopped apricots, or even cranberries to suit your taste. Just ensure that the total quantity remains the same.
Why do my rock cakes turn out too crumbly?
If your rock cakes are overly crumbly, it could be due to not binding the dough well enough. Make sure you thoroughly mix the wet and dry ingredients until they come together. If the dough seems too dry, you can add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the right consistency.
Can I make these rock cakes without eggs?
Yes, you can make these rock cakes without eggs. You can substitute each egg with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar) and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This acts as an egg replacement in many baking recipes.
Can I store the rock cakes for several days, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can store Mary Berry Rock Cakes for several days. Once they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Pairings for Mary Berry Rock Cakes
1. Classic Tea Pairing: Mary Berry Rock Cakes find their perfect partner in a steaming cup of Earl Grey or English Breakfast tea. The warm, comforting notes of black tea complement the sweetness and crumbly texture of the rock cakes, creating a harmonious tea-time experience.
2. Clotted Cream and Jam: For a delightful twist, serve your rock cakes with clotted cream and your favorite jam. The rich, creamy texture of clotted cream and the fruity sweetness of jam add layers of flavor that beautifully contrast with the cakes’ crunchiness.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: Turn your Mary Berry Rock Cakes into an indulgent dessert by serving them alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The warm cakes and cold ice cream create a delectable temperature contrast that’s simply irresistible.
4. Fresh Berries: Enhance the fruity notes in your rock cakes by pairing them with a selection of fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the cakes, making for a refreshing and balanced combination.
5. Caramel Drizzle: Elevate the decadence by drizzling warm caramel sauce over your Mary Berry Rock Cakes. The sweet, buttery caramel adds a luxurious touch and a delightful caramelized flavor that takes the cakes to the next level.
6. Whipped Cream: For a lighter option, serve your rock cakes with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The airy texture of the cream enhances the crumbly cakes and adds a subtle richness without overwhelming the palate.
7. Nutty Delights: Experiment with different types of nuts like toasted almonds or pecans for a nutty twist. The earthy, roasted flavors of nuts complement the fruity sweetness of the rock cakes, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
8. Spiced Chai Tea: If you’re looking for an exotic pairing, enjoy your rock cakes with a steaming mug of spiced chai tea. The aromatic spices in the chai, like cinnamon and cardamom, harmonize with the flavors of the cakes, creating a memorable taste experience.
Conclusion:
These Mary Berry-inspired Rock Cakes are a delightful treat that brings a warm and homely touch to any occasion. With their crispy, sugary tops and the burst of fruity goodness within, they’re sure to become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later – either way, they’re bound to satisfy your sweet cravings!
