Eccles cake

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Eccles Cake Recipe 🥧 The Irresistible British Pastry You Need to Try!

Golden, flaky, and filled with juicy currants, the Eccles cake is one of Britain’s most beloved pastries. Whether enjoyed at a traditional tea time or as a sweet snack, its rich history and irresistible taste make it a true classic.

Discovering Eccles Cakes

Originating in the small town of Eccles near Manchester, this humble pastry dates back to the late 18th century. First sold commercially by baker James Birch in 1793, the Eccles cake quickly became popular across England and beyond.

Today, it is enjoyed not only for its delicious taste but also for its fascinating past. In fact, exploring the culinary heritage of Manchester often leads curious food lovers to discover this historic treat.

What Makes Eccles Cakes So Special?

At first glance, an Eccles cake might resemble other fruit pastries. But its combination of crisp puff pastry and spiced currant filling sets it apart.

As the rich history of British food shows, simple recipes like this have stood the test of time for good reason. You’ll also find a beautiful example of timeless baking in this BBC Good Food recipe, which inspired many home bakers.

If you love exploring other traditional remedies and recipes, check out our guide on making a perfect herbal tea for digestion — another timeless British staple.

Ingredients You’ll Need 📝

Puff pastry (ready-rolled or homemade) 🥐
Unsalted butter 🧈
Soft brown sugar 🍬
Currants 🍇
Mixed spice (or cinnamon and nutmeg) 🌟
Freshly grated nutmeg (optional) 🌰
Egg white 🥚
Granulated sugar (for sprinkling) ✨

How to Make Eccles Cakes

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or 425°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2️⃣ Prepare the filling:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the brown sugar, currants, mixed spice, and nutmeg. Stir well and cook gently for 2-3 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

3️⃣ Roll out the pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry and cut into circles about 9–10 cm wide.

4️⃣ Fill and seal:
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each pastry circle. Dampen the edges with water, bring them up over the filling, and pinch to seal. Flip the sealed side down and gently flatten each cake.

5️⃣ Decorate and bake:
Place the cakes on the prepared tray. Brush with egg white and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Make a couple of small slits on top for steam to escape.

6️⃣ Bake:
Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Cool on a wire rack.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Eccles Cakes

  • Use all-butter puff pastry for the best flavor.

  • Don’t overfill the cakes, or the filling may leak.

  • Allow the filling to cool before assembling to avoid soggy pastry.

  • For extra crispiness, chill the assembled cakes for 10 minutes before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Try adding chopped mixed peel or orange zest for a citrusy twist. 🍊

  • Use sultanas or raisins instead of currants.

  • Make vegan Eccles cakes by using plant-based pastry and margarine.

  • Add a pinch of ground ginger for added warmth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Eccles cakes warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with:

  • A hot cup of black tea ☕

  • A dollop of clotted cream or whipped cream 🍶

  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert 🍨

For another delightful British tradition, explore our article on using banana peels in the garden — a charming eco-friendly tip your grandmother would love!

Storage Tips

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat gently in a warm oven to refresh the crispness.

  • Freeze unbaked filled cakes for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

FAQs About Eccles Cakes

What is the difference between Eccles cake and Chorley cake?
Chorley cakes are flatter and less sweet, often made with shortcrust pastry. Eccles cakes use puff pastry and have a richer filling.

Why are they called Eccles cakes?
They were first made and sold in Eccles, a town in Greater Manchester.

Are Eccles cakes healthy?
While delicious, they are a treat — high in sugar and fat. Enjoy them in moderation.

Can you freeze Eccles cakes?
Yes! Freeze them unbaked or baked. Always reheat gently before serving.

Who invented Eccles cakes?
James Birch is credited with the first commercial sale of Eccles cakes in 1793.

What pastry is used in Eccles cakes?
Puff pastry is traditionally used for its light and crisp texture.

Conclusion

The humble Eccles cake offers a delightful taste of British history — simple, comforting, and endlessly satisfying. Why not try baking a batch yourself?

If you do, we’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below and share your experience. And if you enjoyed this recipe, feel free to share it with fellow pastry lovers! 🥧✨🍀