Traditional Parkin Cake Recipe: A Taste of Yorkshire
Parkin Cake is a classic Yorkshire recipe with roots in Northern England. This cake, rich with the flavors of ginger, oats, and treacle, is traditionally made for Bonfire Night but is delicious any time of year. Its chewy texture and warm spices make it perfect for cozying up with a hot drink on chilly days.
What is Parkin Cake?
Parkin is a traditional cake from Northern England, particularly associated with Yorkshire. Made with oatmeal, golden syrup, and molasses, it has a unique texture that becomes even better after a few days of maturing. The cake is spiced with ginger, adding a warming depth that’s perfect for autumn and winter. Traditionally enjoyed around Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes Night) on November 5th, it has become a much-loved treat for anyone craving a comforting, sticky cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Parkin Cake recipe is simple to make, uses easy-to-find ingredients, and yields a deliciously chewy, spiced cake that only improves over time. If you’ve never tried traditional English recipes, this is a wonderful way to explore classic British flavors.
Ingredients
- Oatmeal – 1 cup (fine or medium-cut, not instant)
- Self-raising flour – 1 cup
- Brown sugar – 3/4 cup
- Butter – 1/2 cup, melted
- Golden syrup – 1/4 cup
- Black treacle – 1/4 cup
- Milk – 1/4 cup
- Ground ginger – 2 tsp
- Mixed spice – 1/2 tsp
- Salt – a pinch
Instructions for Making Parkin Cake
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Grease and line an 8-inch square baking tin with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the oatmeal, self-raising flour, brown sugar, ground ginger, mixed spice, and salt.
- Step 3: In a small saucepan, gently heat the butter, golden syrup, and black treacle until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Step 4: Pour the butter mixture into the dry ingredients and stir well. Add the milk and mix until combined.
- Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared tin and spread evenly.
- Step 6: Bake for 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the tin before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Step 7: For the best flavor and texture, wrap the cake in foil and store it in an airtight container for at least 2-3 days before serving. This allows the flavors to mature and the texture to become stickier.
Tips for the Perfect Parkin Cake
- Choose fine oatmeal: Medium-cut oatmeal works well for a smoother texture, while coarse oatmeal gives more chew.
- Let it mature: Parkin improves over time. If you can wait a few days, you’ll be rewarded with a stickier, more flavorful cake.
- Customize the spices: While ginger is essential, you can add cinnamon or nutmeg for additional warmth.
Are you craving something sweet? Check out our other recipes: Dessert Recipes
Serving Suggestions
Parkin Cake is perfect on its own but is delicious served with a dollop of whipped cream, custard, or even a slice of sharp cheddar cheese for an authentic British experience. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a cozy dessert on a chilly evening.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use regular molasses instead of black treacle?
Yes, molasses can substitute black treacle, though black treacle adds a slightly deeper flavor. If using molasses, choose unsulfured for the best results.
2. How long does Parkin Cake last?
Properly stored in an airtight container, Parkin Cake can last up to two weeks. Its flavor and texture improve as it sits, making it ideal for advance preparation.
3. Can I freeze Parkin Cake?
Yes, you can freeze Parkin Cake. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
This Parkin Cake recipe brings a piece of Northern England’s history and flavor to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and a unique, chewy texture that improves over time, it’s the ultimate cozy treat to enjoy with friends and family. Try this traditional recipe, and let the comforting taste of Yorkshire warm you up this season!
Parkin Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup oatmeal fine or medium-cut
- 1 cup self-raising flour
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 1/4 cup golden syrup
- 1/4 cup black treacle
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp mixed spice
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Grease and line an 8-inch baking tin.
- Combine oatmeal, self-raising flour, brown sugar, ground ginger, mixed spice, and salt in a large bowl.
- Gently heat butter, golden syrup, and black treacle in a saucepan until smooth, then cool slightly.
- Pour butter mixture into dry ingredients, add milk, and mix until combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared tin and spread evenly.
- Bake for 1 hour, then cool in the tin before transferring to a rack.
- For the best texture, wrap and store for 2-3 days before serving.
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