5 Easy Steps To Bake Perfect Mary Berry Rock Cakes

Nov 18, 2024 · 8 min read

Discover the art of baking with our guide on "5 Easy Steps To Bake Perfect Mary Berry Rock Cakes." This article provides a straightforward, step-by-step approach to creating deliciously crumbly rock cakes, inspired by Mary Berry's timeless recipes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, you'll find essential tips and tricks to achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delightful treats!

Hadwin Maverick

Editorial and Creative Lead

Baking rock cakes might seem like a daunting task, but with Mary Berry's trusted recipe, you can whip up these delightful treats in no time. With their deliciously crumbly texture and a delightful mix of fruits, rock cakes are a traditional British favorite that bring warmth to any tea time. Follow these 5 easy steps to bake perfect Mary Berry rock cakes! 🍰

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients 🛒

The first step to baking any cake is ensuring you have all the necessary ingredients. For Mary Berry's rock cakes, you will need:

<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Quantity</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Self-raising flour</td> <td>225g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Butter</td> <td>110g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Golden caster sugar</td> <td>75g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Mixed dried fruit</td> <td>150g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Eggs</td> <td>1 large</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Milk</td> <td>2-3 tbsp</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Ground spice (optional)</td> <td>1 tsp</td> </tr> </table>

Important Note: Ensure that the butter is at room temperature to blend smoothly with the sugar.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven 🔥

Before you start mixing, preheating your oven is essential. Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) for conventional ovens, or 160°C (320°F) for fan-assisted ovens. This ensures that your rock cakes bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Tip: Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent your cakes from sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients 🥄

Now it's time to bring your ingredients together. Start by sifting the self-raising flour into a mixing bowl and then rub in the butter using your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs. This step is vital to achieving the cake's signature texture!

Next, stir in the sugar and mixed dried fruit. You can also add a teaspoon of ground spice at this stage for additional flavor. Once that’s done, beat the egg and add it to the mixture, followed by the milk. Stir everything until combined, but be careful not to overmix – you want a thick, doughy consistency.

Step 4: Shape the Cakes 🎂

With your dough ready, it's time to shape your rock cakes. Using two tablespoons, scoop out portions of the mixture and place them onto the prepared baking tray. Don't worry about making them perfectly round; they should look rustic and be slightly uneven, which is the charm of rock cakes!

Leave some space between each dollop as they will spread slightly while baking.

Note: For an added touch, you can sprinkle a little extra sugar on top of each cake before they go into the oven for a sweet, crunchy finish.

Step 5: Bake and Enjoy! ⏲️

Now that your cakes are shaped and ready, it's time to bake! Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the cakes are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as oven times can vary.

Once they’re done, remove the tray from the oven and let the cakes cool slightly on a wire rack. They should be slightly crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Serve your delicious rock cakes warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea, and enjoy the delightful taste of Mary Berry's classic recipe! ☕

Final Thoughts

Baking Mary Berry rock cakes is a simple yet rewarding experience. With just a few easy steps, you can create a delicious treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying them with family or sharing with friends, these rock cakes are sure to impress! Happy baking! 🎉