Mary Berry Rock Cakes

Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes are a classic British teatime treat, featuring a crumbly, slightly crunchy exterior with a soft, lightly spiced interior. These simple yet delicious cakes are packed with dried fruit and require minimal effort, making them perfect for quick baking.

What Are Mary Berry Rock Cakes?

Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes are small, rustic-looking cakes made with self-raising flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and dried fruit. Unlike traditional cakes, they have a rough, rugged texture and are slightly crunchy on the outside while remaining soft and tender inside.

Other Popular Recipes

• Gordon Ramsay Lamb Stew
• Mary Berry Marshmallow Icing
• Mary Berry Mac and Cheese
• Mary Berry Cottage Pie

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make – no special equipment needed.
• Light, crumbly texture with a delicious buttery flavor.
• Perfect with a cup of tea for an afternoon treat.
• Great for beginner bakers – minimal ingredients and simple steps.
• Customizable with different dried fruits and spices.

Ingredients Needed for Mary Berry Rock Cakes

• 225g (1¾ cups) self-raising flour
• 100g (½ cup) unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 75g (⅓ cup) caster sugar
• 100g (¾ cup) mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants)
• 1 tsp mixed spice (optional)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Baking tray
• Baking parchment
• Wooden spoon
• Fork or pastry cutter

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Rock Cakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
• Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, sift the self-raising flour and add a pinch of salt.
• Rub in the cold butter using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Add the Sugar and Fruit

• Stir in the caster sugar, dried fruit, and mixed spice (if using).

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• In a small bowl, whisk the egg, milk, and vanilla extract together.
• Pour into the dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon until a rough, sticky dough forms.

Step 5: Shape the Rock Cakes

• Using a spoon, drop rough heaps of dough onto the baking tray.
• Keep them rough and uneven for a traditional rock cake appearance.
• Leave space between them as they will spread slightly.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

• Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and firm.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Allow the rock cakes to cool on a wire rack before serving.
• Enjoy warm or at room temperature with butter or jam.

What to Serve With Mary Berry Rock Cakes

• A cup of tea or coffee – the perfect pairing.
• Butter or clotted cream – for added richness.
• Fruit preserves or lemon curd – adds extra flavor.
• A sprinkle of icing sugar – for a decorative finish.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Rock Cakes

• Use cold butter for a crumbly texture.
• Do not overmix the dough – rock cakes should have a rough, rustic look.
• Try different dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or cherries.
• Add a little orange or lemon zest for extra flavor.
• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.

What Are Variations of Mary Berry Rock Cakes?

• Chocolate Chip Rock Cakes: Swap dried fruit for chocolate chips.
• Nutty Rock Cakes: Add chopped almonds or walnuts for crunch.
• Coconut Rock Cakes: Stir in desiccated coconut for extra texture.
• Spiced Rock Cakes: Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm flavor.
• Gluten-Free Rock Cakes: Use gluten-free self-raising flour.

How Do I Store Mary Berry Rock Cakes?

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freeze for later: Wrap in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat in the oven: Warm at 160°C (320°F) for 5 minutes.

How Can I Reheat Rock Cakes Without Drying Them Out?

• Oven method: Reheat at 160°C (320°F) for 5 minutes to restore crispness.
• Microwave method: Heat for 10-15 seconds to keep them soft.

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

• Use wholemeal flour for added fiber.
• Reduce sugar slightly for a less sweet version.
• Replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Add ground flaxseeds for extra nutrients.

Nutrition Value (Per Rock Cake)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Why Are My Rock Cakes Too Dry?

Rock cakes can become dry if too much flour is used or if they are overbaked. Ensure you measure ingredients accurately and bake for 12-15 minutes only. Adding a little extra milk can also help keep them moist.

Can I Use Plain Flour Instead of Self-Raising Flour?

Yes, but you will need to add 2 teaspoons of baking powder per 225g of plain flour to help the rock cakes rise properly.

How Do I Get a Crumbly Texture in Rock Cakes?

For the best crumbly texture, use cold butter and rub it into the flour lightly until it resembles breadcrumbs. Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can make the rock cakes dense instead of light.

Can I Make Rock Cakes Without Eggs?

Yes, rock cakes can be made without eggs by replacing them with 3 tablespoons of milk or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) to maintain the right consistency.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes are simple, delicious, and full of nostalgic charm. Whether enjoyed with tea, butter, or a bit of jam, these rock cakes make a wonderful homemade treat. Try this quick and easy recipe today for a classic British bake that’s perfect for any occasion!

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