Welsh Cakes (Picau Ar y Maen)
A traditional Welsh treat! These griddle cakes are a cross between a pancake, a cookie, and a scone – lightly spiced, slightly sweet, and deliciously dense. Best served warm with a sprinkle of sugar.
📝 Ingredients
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225g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
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85g (⅓ cup + 1 tbsp) caster sugar (or fine granulated sugar)
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½ tsp baking powder
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1 tsp mixed spice (or ½ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp nutmeg)
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Pinch of salt
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110g (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
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50g (¼ cup) currants or raisins
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1 large egg, beaten
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2-3 tbsp milk
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Butter, for greasing the griddle
For serving:
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Extra caster sugar for dusting
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Make the Dough
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, mixed spice, and salt.
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Rub the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
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Stir in the currants.
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Make a well in the center and add the beaten egg. Mix with a fork, adding just enough milk to form a firm dough.
2. Roll and Cut
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On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about ¼-inch (½ cm) thickness.
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Use a 2-3 inch (5-7 cm) round cutter to cut out rounds. Re-roll the scraps and repeat.
3. Cook the Welsh Cakes
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Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet, griddle, or frying pan over medium-low heat. Lightly grease with butter.
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Cook the cakes in batches for about 3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. They should still be soft in the middle, not crisp.
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Remove and place on a wire rack.
4. Serve
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While still warm, dust both sides generously with caster sugar.
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Serve warm with a cup of tea. They are best eaten the day they are made but can be gently reheated the next day.
💡 Pro Tips
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Don’t Overcook: The key is a low, slow heat to cook them through without burning the outside.
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Butter vs. Lard: Traditionally, lard was used, but butter gives a richer flavor.
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Spice Level: Adjust the mixed spice to your taste. A little nutmeg or allspice works wonderfully too.
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No Currants? Use raisins, sultanas, or even chocolate chips for a twist.
These are a wonderfully simple and comforting treat straight from the heart of Wales. Enjoy! ☕️