Welsh Cakes, also known as bakestones, are a beloved treat hailing from the heart of Wales. Soft, lightly sweet, and dotted with currants or raisins, these cakes are cooked on a griddle or skillet rather than baked in an oven. With a golden crust and tender, buttery center, they strike a perfect balance between a scone and a pancake—ideal for breakfast, tea time, or a cozy afternoon snack.
In this article, we’ll dive into the history of Welsh Cakes, walk through the traditional recipe, share tips for preparation, and provide ideas for serving and customizing these delightful bites.
A Brief History of Welsh Cakes
Welsh Cakes date back to the 19th century and were originally prepared by Welsh coal miners’ families as a portable, nourishing snack. Cooked on a bakestone (a thick iron griddle), they were hearty enough to fuel long days of labor and sweet enough to feel like a treat.
Today, Welsh Cakes remain a treasured part of Welsh culture and are often served on holidays like St. David’s Day or simply enjoyed with a hot cup of tea. Their simplicity and rich heritage have made them a favorite far beyond the borders of Wales.
What Makes Welsh Cakes Special?
- Griddle-Cooked: Unlike most cakes or cookies, Welsh Cakes are cooked on a flat griddle or heavy skillet, giving them their signature crisp outside and soft middle.
- Minimal Ingredients: Made with flour, butter, sugar, dried fruit, and a hint of spice, they require only a handful of pantry staples.
- Versatile: Serve warm, cold, plain, or with a spread—they’re delicious any way you enjoy them.
Ingredients
(Makes 12–14 cakes):
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (75g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup (75g) currants or raisins
- 1 large egg
- 2–3 tablespoons milk, as needed
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Yield: About 12–14 Welsh Cakes
Instructions
1. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, spices, and salt.
2. Rub in the Butter
Add cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Add Fruit
Stir in the currants or raisins.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, beat the egg with 2 tablespoons of milk. Add this to the dry mixture and combine to form a soft dough. If the dough is too dry, add another tablespoon of milk.
5. Roll and Cut
Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough to about 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) thick. Use a round cutter (about 2.5 inches or 6 cm) to cut out cakes.
6. Cook on the Griddle
Preheat a nonstick skillet or cast iron griddle over medium-low heat. Cook the cakes in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
7. Cool and Dust
Transfer to a wire rack and dust with powdered sugar while warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Cake)
Approximate values per Welsh Cake (based on 14 cakes):
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 60mg
Light and satisfying, they’re a sweet treat that won’t weigh you down.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Traditional Style: Enjoy warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a cup of black tea.
- With Spreads: Serve with butter, jam, clotted cream, or even lemon curd.
- Afternoon Tea Platter: Pair with scones, shortbread, and sandwiches for a classic British tea experience.
These little cakes look lovely stacked on a tiered tray, garnished with fresh berries or a sprig of mint.
Variations and Customizations
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Replace currants with mini chocolate chips for a kid-friendly version.
- Spiced Version: Add a bit of ground ginger or allspice for deeper warmth.
- Citrus Zing: Stir in some lemon or orange zest for a bright, fragrant note.
- Gluten-Free: Use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend and add a pinch of xanthan gum if needed.
Whether you stay true to the traditional recipe or mix in your favorite flavors, Welsh Cakes adapt beautifully.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Welsh Cakes store well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They also freeze wonderfully—just wrap in foil or plastic and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or toaster before serving.
Welsh Cakes are a testament to the beauty of simple, traditional baking. With their soft, crumbly texture and delicate sweetness, they offer comfort in every bite. Whether you’re exploring your Welsh roots or simply craving a new tea-time treat, this timeless recipe is a must-try.