The Great British Eccles Cake

May 08, 2023May 8, 20230 2
The Great British Eccles Cake, a sweet and spiced baked pastry
in Pastry

Prep

30 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

50 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

8 ounces plain flour
1 pinch salt
5 3/4 ounces chilled unsalted butter , divided
4 -5 tablespoons water
1 ounce soft unsalted butter
4 ounces caster sugar
7 ounces currants
2 ounces chopped candied peel
freshly grated nutmeg
milk
granulated sugar

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
6
Calories
415
Sugar
23g
Fat
24g
The Great British Eccles Cake is a traditional pastry that originates from the town of Eccles in Manchester, England. It is believed to date back to the 18th century and was originally made with beef suet. The modern version of the cake is a sweet pastry that is often enjoyed with a cup of tea. It has a spiced filling made with currants and candied peel, wrapped in buttery and flaky pastry. The Eccles Cake is popular throughout the United Kingdom and is a beloved treat for many.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2.In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Cut 4 ounces of chilled butter into small cubes and add to the bowl. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3.Add the water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix the dough until it comes together. Wrap the dough in cling film and chill for 30 minutes.
4.Meanwhile, make the filling by mixing together the soft butter and caster sugar in a bowl. Stir in the currants, chopped candied peel, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg.
5.Roll out the pastry onto a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) thickness. Cut out circles about 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter.
6.Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the pastry over the filling and seal the edges by pressing them together.
7.Place the Eccles cakes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with milk and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
8.Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cakes are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
9.Serve warm or at room temperature.

PROS

The Great British Eccles Cake is a delicious and traditional pastry that is perfect for tea time.
It has a sweet and spiced filling that is wrapped in crispy and buttery pastry.

The recipe is easy to follow and does not require many ingredients.
It is also versatile and can be customized according to personal taste.

CONS

The pastry is high in sugar and fat, making it a treat that should be enjoyed in moderation.
It is not suitable for those who are trying to restrict their calorie intake or follow a low-fat diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While The Great British Eccles Cake is not particularly healthy, it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat in moderation.
The currants in the filling are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium. They are also high in fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote satiety.

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