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Rock Cakes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 31 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 9 to 12 cakes
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British

Description

These classic Rock Cakes are spiced, lightly sweetened, and studded with raisins, perfect for a cozy tea time treat. Easy to make with simple ingredients, they have a delightful crumbly texture and a golden brown crust.


Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups self-rising flour, sifted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk, plus more if needed

Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup raisins


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350˚F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even baking.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients and butter: In a food processor or a large bowl, combine the sifted self-rising flour and butter. Mix in the granulated sugar and all the spices—pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon—along with a pinch of salt to distribute flavors evenly.
  3. Add wet ingredients and form dough: Stir in the beaten egg and 2 tablespoons of whole milk. Mix until a sticky dough forms, adding a little extra milk if needed for proper consistency. Fold in the raisins gently.
  4. Portion the dough: Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, place heaping spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
  5. Bake the rock cakes: Put the tray in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the rock cakes turn golden brown on top and are cooked through.
  6. Cool and serve: Allow the cakes to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or with butter or jam for extra indulgence.

Notes

  • Ensure not to overmix the dough to keep the cakes crumbly and tender.
  • You can substitute raisins with currants or chopped dried apricots if preferred.
  • For a richer flavor, try using melted butter instead of cold butter cut into flour.
  • Adjust the milk quantity to get a dough that holds together without being too wet.
  • Rock cakes are best enjoyed freshly baked but can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days.