Mary Berry’s Rock Cakes

Mary Berry's Rock Cakes offer a classic British baking experience, They are known for their unique blend of ingredients that create a delightful, slightly crunchy yet crumbly texture. The combination of a buttery base with the sweetness of various dried fruits results in a treat that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Mary Berry's Rock Cakes are more than just a treat; they're a journey through cherished traditions and flavors. Each bite brings a sense of nostalgic comfort, reminiscent of time-honored recipes and warm, family gatherings. Perfect for unexpected guests or spontaneous baking adventures, these delightful cakes can be whipped up in a mere 30 minutes, making them a quick and convenient choice. The versatility of the recipe allows for personalization with an array of dried fruits, catering to various taste preferences. And the final product? A masterpiece of buttery goodness, where the rich, creamy flavor perfectly complements the soft, crumbly texture, making each cake a delectable experience.

Whether it's for a special occasion or a simple treat, Mary Berry's Rock Cakes are sure to impress with their blend of comfort, convenience, and customizable flavors. Ready in a swift 30 minutes, this recipe yields a dozen cakes.

📜 Ingredients for Mary Berry's Rock Cakes

• Self-Raising Flour: 8 oz
• Baking Powder: 2 tsp
• Softened Butter: 4 oz
• Sugar: 2 oz
• Mixed Dried Fruit: 4 oz
• Currants: 2 oz
• Large Egg: 1
• Milk: 1 tbsp
• Demerara Sugar: for sprinkling

🍪 Steps for Preparing Mary Berry's Rock Cakes

1. Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F), or 180°C (356°F) if using a fan-assisted oven. Lightly grease two baking trays.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour and baking powder.
3. Rub the softened butter into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
4. Stir in the sugar and dried fruit, ensuring they are thoroughly mixed and evenly distributed.
5. In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Add this liquid mixture to the dry ingredients, blending well.
6. If the mixture seems too dry, gradually add a bit more milk to achieve the right consistency.
7. Shape the dough into 12 rock cake portions and arrange them on the prepared baking trays.
8. Generously sprinkle demerara sugar over the tops of the cakes.
9. Ensure the oven is fully heated before baking. Place the trays in the oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cakes are a golden brown color.
10. Once baked, transfer the rock cakes to a wire rack to cool.

How to Store Mary Berry Rock Cakes?

• At Room Temperature: Keep the rock cakes in an airtight container. They will remain fresh for about 3 days.
• In the Freezer: To freeze, first wrap each rock cake individually in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag or a sealed container. Don't forget to label them with the date. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

🥵 Reheating Instructions for Rock Cakes

• Microwave Method: Encase the rock cake in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20–30 seconds. Check periodically to achieve the desired level of warmth.
• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Wrap the rock cake in foil and warm it for 5–10 minutes. Be cautious to avoid drying it out.
• Toaster Oven Method: Set the toaster oven to a low setting and toast the rock cake briefly. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from burning.

And here are the nutritional values for one serving of Mary Berry Rock Cakes:

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 100mg

FAQs About Making Rock Cakes

1. Why do my rock cakes turn out dry?
   If your rock cakes are too dry, it could be a result of overcooking them or not using enough butter. Try increasing the amount of butter or reducing the baking time.
2. How do I modify the sweetness of my rock cakes?
   To adjust the sweetness, you can vary the quantity of sugar or opt for dried fruits that are naturally sweeter.
3. Is it possible to use fresh berries instead of dried fruit in the recipe?
   Yes, you can use fresh berries in place of dried fruit. However, be mindful to balance the additional moisture and sweetness they may bring.
4. Should dried fruits be soaked prior to adding them to the batter?
   Soaking dried fruits beforehand can make them juicier and also contribute extra moisture to your rock cakes.