Classic Eccles Cakes

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Eccles Cakes.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 425°F (220°C).

2. Step 2

   To ensure your delicious creations don’t stick, lightly sprinkle a baking sheet with a bit of water.

3. Step 3

   In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt some butter until it’s beautifully golden.

4. Step 4

   Once melted, add in dried currants, demerara sugar, chopped candied fruit peel, and a sprinkle of mixed spice.

5. Step 5

   Stir this delightful mixture until the sugar dissolves and the fruit is perfectly coated, then take it off the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

6. Step 6

   Next, on a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry to about 1/4 inch thick.

7. Step 7

   Grab a saucer and use it to cut out eight 5-inch circles from the pastry.

8. Step 8

   Now, it’s time to fill those circles! Evenly distribute the fruity mixture right in the center of each pastry circle.

9. Step 9

   To help seal in all that goodness, moisten the edges of the pastry with a touch of water.

10. Step 10

    Gently fold the pastry over the filling towards the center and pinch the edges to create a lovely seal.

11. Step 11

    Carefully flip the filled pastries onto the floured surface and give them a gentle press to create wider, flatter circles—just be cautious not to break the dough.

12. Step 12

    For a beautiful finish, brush the top of each cake with beaten egg white and sprinkle them generously with white sugar.

13. Step 13

    To let the steam escape while baking, make three parallel cuts across the top of each cake.

14. Step 14

    Now, transfer your lovely creations to the prepared baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven.

15. Step 15

    Bake for about 15 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

16. Step 16

    The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible! Enjoy your delightful pastries, perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own.