Eccles Cakes Recipe - Authentic British Dessert

Authentic British Dessert recipe — Eccles Cakes. Imported from TheMealDB.

Medium
Updated March 14, 2026

4

servings

Medium

Difficulty

Eccles Cakes Recipe - Authentic British Dessert

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (chilled and diced)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup milk (chilled)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as currants and raisins)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon demerara sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions

7 steps

  1. Prepare the Pastry

    In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and butter until it resembles breadcrumbs.

    Keep the butter cold for a flakier pastry.
  2. Add Sugar and Liquid

    Stir in the sugar, then add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until a dough forms.

    Do not overwork the dough.
  3. Chill the Dough

    Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

    Chilling helps the dough to be easier to roll out.
  4. Make the Filling

    In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

    Feel free to adjust the spices according to taste.
  5. Roll Out the Dough

    On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick and cut into circles.

    Use a cookie cutter or a glass for uniform shapes.
  6. Fill and Shape the Cakes

    Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle, fold over the edges, and seal.

    Make sure the filling is well enclosed.
  7. Bake the Eccles Cakes

    Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with demerara sugar. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

    Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Tags: Snack,Treat

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 5 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 3 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

What to Serve With

Complete your british meal with these perfect pairings:

A cup of espresso or café au lait
🍦Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side
🍓Fresh berries or seasonal fruit

About This Dish

Eccles Cakes Recipe - Authentic British Dessert is a beloved dish from British cuisine.

British cuisine has undergone a renaissance, combining traditional comfort dishes with modern innovation. Classic recipes often feature hearty, warming ingredients perfect for the British climate.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 10 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

It's best to stick with dried fruits as they hold up better during baking.

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Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories180kcal
Total Fat8gg
Sodium100mgmg
Total Carbohydrates24gg
Dietary Fiber1gg
Total Sugars6gg
Protein2gg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineBritish
CategoryDesserts