Mary Berry Rock Cakes Recipe

Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes are classic British treats that are easy to make and perfect for tea time. They have a slightly crisp exterior with a tender, crumbly inside and are studded with dried fruit, which adds bursts of sweetness to every bite. Simple yet delicious, rock cakes are named for their rugged appearance rather than their texture, which is actually soft and buttery.

What Are Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes?

Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes are small, rustic cakes made with flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and mixed dried fruits. They have a slightly rough, craggy surface but a soft, crumbly texture inside. Unlike more complex cakes, rock cakes are easy to make with minimal ingredients, making them a popular choice for both beginner bakers and those looking for a quick treat.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Lemon Drizzle Traybake
• Jamie Oliver Lemon Drizzle Cake
• Delia Smith Rock Cakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Rock cakes are simple to make and require no special skills or equipment.
• Perfect with Tea: These cakes are an ideal treat for afternoon tea.
• Classic British Recipe: A beloved recipe that brings nostalgia and tradition.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and is budget-friendly.
• Customizable: Add spices or nuts to make them your own.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes

• 225g self-raising flour – Provides structure and helps the cakes rise.
• 1 tsp baking powder – Adds a bit more lift.
• 100g butter (cold and diced) – Adds richness and helps create a crumbly texture.
• 75g caster sugar – Sweetens the cakes without making them overly sweet.
• 100g mixed dried fruit – Adds texture and bursts of sweetness; you can use raisins, currants, or sultanas.
• 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together.
• 2-3 tbsp milk – Helps bring the dough together and keeps it moist.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl – For combining ingredients.
• Pastry cutter or fingertips – To rub in the butter.
• Baking tray – For baking the rock cakes.
• Parchment paper – To line the baking tray for easy cleanup.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tray

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the rock cakes from sticking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift the self-raising flour and baking powder. Add the diced butter to the bowl.

Step 3: Rub in the Butter

Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. This step helps create a crumbly texture in the cakes.

Step 4: Add the Sugar and Dried Fruit

Stir in the caster sugar and mixed dried fruit, ensuring the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Add the Egg and Milk

In a small bowl, beat the egg with 2 tablespoons of milk. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with a fork until the dough just comes together. If the dough is too dry, add an additional tablespoon of milk.

Step 6: Shape the Rock Cakes

Using a spoon, divide the dough into rough, rock-shaped mounds, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on the prepared baking tray. Space them out slightly as they will spread a little during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Rock Cakes

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the rock cakes are golden brown and feel firm to the touch.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove the tray from the oven and allow the rock cakes to cool on a wire rack. Serve them warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea.

What Goes Well with Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes

• Butter or Clotted Cream: Spread on the warm cakes for extra richness.
• Fruit Preserves: A spoonful of jam adds sweetness and complements the fruit.
• Tea or Coffee: Classic rock cakes are perfect with a hot beverage.
• Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh berries balances the richness of the cakes.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle lightly for a touch of added sweetness.

Expert Tips for the Best Rock Cakes

• Use Cold Butter: Cold butter helps achieve a crumbly texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Handle the dough gently to keep the cakes light.
• Adjust the Milk Carefully: Add milk gradually to achieve the right consistency without making the dough too wet.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Bake Until Golden: Bake just until golden brown for the perfect texture.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes

• Spiced Rock Cakes: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or mixed spice to the dough for a warm flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Rock Cakes: Replace dried fruit with chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
• Nutty Rock Cakes: Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for added texture.
• Zesty Rock Cakes: Grate in some lemon or orange zest for a fresh, citrusy note.
• Tropical Rock Cakes: Use dried pineapple, mango, and coconut for a tropical twist.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Longer Storage: Wrap individual rock cakes in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheat for Freshness: Warm rock cakes in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to refresh them.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes Healthier?

• Reduce Sugar: Use a bit less sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute part of the self-raising flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Use Greek Yogurt: Replace some of the butter with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit to add natural sweetness.

Nutrition Value (Per Rock Cake)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g

FAQs

What is the Best Way to Keep Rock Cakes Fresh?

To keep rock cakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually in plastic wrap and thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

Can I Use Plain Flour Instead of Self-Raising Flour for Rock Cakes?

Yes, you can use plain flour instead of self-raising flour. Add 1 teaspoon of baking powder per 100g of plain flour to achieve the same rise and texture.

Why Are My Rock Cakes Too Hard?

Rock cakes can turn out hard if the dough is overmixed or if too little milk is added, making the dough too dry. Handle the dough gently, just until it comes together, and add enough milk for a slightly soft consistency.

Can I Add Spices or Other Flavors to Rock Cakes?

Yes, you can easily customize rock cakes with flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract. Adding citrus zest, like lemon or orange, also gives a lovely flavor boost.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes are simple yet delightful treats that are perfect for any occasion. With a buttery, crumbly texture and bursts of sweetness from the dried fruit, these cakes are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Serve them with tea or coffee, or on their own for a classic British treat that’s sure to please.

More By British Baking Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Carrot and Ginger Cake
• Jamie Oliver Cheese And Onion Pasties
• Mary Berry Eccles Cakes
• Mary Berry Treacle Scones

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