Best Apricot And Sultana Rock Cakes Recipes

Apricot and sultana rock cakes recipes are a simple yet delicious baked good that is perfect for a casual afternoon tea or snack. The recipe is a classic British bake that has been enjoyed for generations, with a crumbly texture and a fruity taste that is hard to resist.

What are Rock Cakes?

Rock cakes are a type of biscuit that gets its name from its rocky, irregular shape. They are also known as rock buns or rock cookies and are traditionally made with flour, sugar, butter, egg, and baking powder. They have a rough texture due to the way the butter is cut into the flour, resulting in small, cakey lumps that are full of flavor.

Ingredients of Apricot and Sultana Rock Cakes Recipes

The apricot and sultana rock cakes recipe is a variation of the classic rock cake recipe, with dried apricots and sultanas added for a sweet and fruity twist. The ingredients for this recipe typically include:

• 225g plain flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 115g unsalted butter, room temperature
• 100g caster sugar
• 1 egg, beaten
• 50g dried apricots, chopped
• 50g sultanas

Method

To make apricot and sultana rock cakes, follow these steps:

Step 1: Preheat your oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan)/375°F/gas mark 5. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 3: Cut in the butter

Using your fingers, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Add sugar, egg, and fruit

Add the caster sugar, egg, chopped apricots, and sultanas to the bowl and mix together until combined.

Step 5: Scoop onto the baking tray

Using a tablespoon, scoop out the mixture and place it onto the prepared baking tray. Make sure to leave enough space between each rock cake as they will spread out while baking.

Step 6: Bake in the oven

Bake the apricot and sultana rock cakes for around 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

There are many variations of the classic rock cake recipe that can be made, including raisin and cherry, chocolate chip, and even savory options with cheese and herbs. Apricot and sultana rock cakes are delicious on their own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of jam for a more indulgent treat.

Conclusion

In sum, apricot and sultana rock cakes are a delightful twist on a classic British treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, crumbly biscuit that is perfect for a cozy afternoon snack. Try out this recipe and experiment with different fruit and flavor variations to find your favorite version of rock cakes.

Rock cakes are simple and easy to make cakes that go well with a cup of tea or coffee. They have a crumbly texture and can be made in many different variations. One of the most popular combinations is apricot and sultana rock cakes. Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind when making this delicious recipe.

Tip 1: Choose the right ingredients

To make the perfect apricot and sultana rock cakes, it is essential to choose the right ingredients. It is always best to use high-quality ingredients that are fresh and of good quality. For example, use unsalted butter instead of margarine, and sifted flour instead of regular flour. For dried fruits, look for soft and moist apricots and sultanas that are not too dry. The type of sugar you use also matters. Use caster sugar instead of granulated sugar, as it gives a smoother texture to the cake.

Tip 2: Mix the ingredients correctly

Mixing the ingredients for rock cakes requires a delicate balance between over-mixing and under-mixing. Over-mixing will result in a tougher cake as the gluten in the flour will develop more. Under-mixing means the ingredients won't bind together properly, resulting in a crumbly mess. To get it just right, mix the dry ingredients together, then rub in the butter until the mixture is crumbly. Stir in the sugar and then the eggs, followed by the apricots and sultanas. Make sure not to over-stir the mixture at any stage.

Tip 3: Use the right temperature

The temperature of the oven is crucial when baking rock cakes. Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F/gas mark 4, and preheat it well before baking. If the temperature is too low, the cakes will not rise as they should. On the other hand, if the temperature is too high, the cakes will overcook and become dry. Keep a check on the cakes while they are baking, and take them out of the oven as soon as they turn golden brown on the top.

Tip 4: Get the shape and size right

The shape and size of rock cakes are what give them their distinctive look and texture. They should be roughly the size of a golf ball and shaped like little rocks. When placing them on the baking tray, make sure to leave enough space between them to allow for spreading while baking. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers to give them a rough surface.

Tip 5: Experiment with ingredients

The best thing about rock cakes is that they are versatile and can be made with a variety of ingredients. Don't be afraid to experiment with different additions like mixed nuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries. You can also try swapping out the apricots and sultanas for other dried fruits like raisins or dates. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can give a lovely warm spice to the cakes.

Tip 6: Store the cakes correctly

Once your apricot and sultana rock cakes are baked and cooled, it's important to store them correctly to keep them fresh. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also freeze them for up to a month, but make sure to wrap them well in cling film and foil before freezing. When you're ready to eat them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then bring them to room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Apricot and sultana rock cakes are a lovely tea-time treat that is easy to make and enjoyable to eat. By following these valuable tips, you can ensure that your rock cakes come out perfectly every time. Experiment with different ingredients, get the shape and size right, and store them correctly for a fresh and delicious treat that everyone will enjoy.