Mary Berry’s Grandmother’s Rock Cakes

Rock cakes are a traditional British treat, known for their craggy, rock-like appearance, but don’t let their rugged exterior fool you. These little gems are tender and bursting with flavour on the inside, making them a perfect companion to your afternoon tea or coffee break.

Ingredients

• 225 g Self-Raising Flour – 1 3/4 cups
• 2 tsp Baking Powder
• 100 g Soft Margarine – 1/2 cup
• 50 g Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup
• 1 Egg (beaten)
• 2 tbsp Milk
• 75 g Sultanas – 1/2 cup
• 75 g Currants – 1/2 cup

How to make rock cakes 

• Preheat the oven to 200℃/180℃FAN/400℉/GAS 6. Grease two large baking trays or line with baking paper.
• Add the flour, baking powder, margarine, sugar, egg and milk to a bowl and mix for about 10 seconds. This should be a stiff mixture. Scrape down the sides, add the sultanas and currants and mix through.
• Spoon out 12 rock cakes on each baking tray using two teaspoons. Sprinkle each with brown sugar.
• Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes, until beginning to brown on the edges. Lift onto a wire rack to cool.

You can also bake these in the air fryer; check air fryer rock cakes.

Serving suggestions for rock cakes

Rock cakes, with their delightful crumbly texture and bursts of dried fruit, are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some delectable serving suggestions to enhance your rock cake experience:

Classic Tea Time: Serve your rock cakes with a pot of freshly brewed tea. Whether you prefer a strong English Breakfast, a delicate Earl Grey, or a soothing herbal infusion, these cakes are the perfect accompaniment to your favourite blend.

Coffee Break: Pair your rock cakes with a robust cup of coffee. The rich, bold flavours of a good espresso or a smooth latte complement the sweetness and spiciness of the cakes, making for a satisfying mid-morning or afternoon treat.

Fresh Cream and Jam: For an indulgent twist, slice the rock cakes in half and spread a dollop of clotted cream or whipped cream and a spoonful of your favourite jam or preserves. This combination transforms your rock cake into a decadent dessert.

Warm and Buttery: Enjoy rock cakes warm from the oven, with a pat of butter melting into the nooks and crannies. This simple pleasure is perfect for a cosy evening.

Dessert Platter: Create a dessert platter by serving rock cakes alongside other bite-sized pastries, such as scones, mini eclairs, and macarons. This assortment is ideal for entertaining guests or for a special high tea event.

Ice Cream Accompaniment: Serve a rock cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream makes for a delightful sensory experience.

Cheese Pairing: For a savoury twist, pair your rock cakes with a selection of cheeses. Aged cheddar or creamy blue cheese can provide a delightful contrast to the sweet and fruity notes of the cakes.

Seasonal Fruits: Serve your rock cakes with a side of fresh seasonal fruits. Berries, sliced peaches, baked apples or poached pears can add a refreshing and healthy element to your treat.

Dessert Wine: For an elegant finish to a meal, pair rock cakes with a sweet dessert wine like a Sauternes or Moscato. The wine’s sweetness will complement the dried fruits and spices in the cakes.

Pack for Picnics: Rock cakes are sturdy and travel well, making them an excellent choice for picnics. Pack them in your basket along with some cheese, fruit, and a thermos of your favourite drink for a delightful outdoor snack.

Remember, the beauty of rock cakes lies in their rustic charm and simplicity, so however you choose to serve them, they’re sure to be a hit.

Enjoy experimenting with these serving suggestions to find your favourite way to savour Mary Berry’s Grandmother’s Rock Cakes. If you love these you will like my Malt loaf recipe that’s just like the shop bought Soreen!