At CwtchBakes, one question we hear often is: “What exactly is a Welsh Cake?” And honestly, we love answering it — once you’ve had one, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
So, whether you’re discovering them for the first time or just need a refresher, here’s everything you need to know about these iconic little treats.
A Cross Between a Scone, a Cookie, and a Pancake?
Welsh Cakes are unique — and wonderfully so. They’re small, round, and usually about the size of your palm. Lightly sweet, filled with dried fruit, and spiced with nutmeg or cinnamon, they’re traditionally cooked on a hot griddle or bakestone, not baked in the oven like many of their cake cousins.
The texture is part of the magic: tender and buttery inside, with a golden, slightly crisp exterior. Think of the richness of a shortbread, the softness of a scone, and the portability of a cookie — all rolled into one perfect bite.
The Traditional Ingredients
The beauty of a Welsh Cake lies in its simplicity. A classic recipe includes:
- Plain flour
- Baking powder
- Butter (and sometimes lard, for authenticity)
- Caster sugar
- Eggs
- Currants or sultanas
- A pinch of mixed spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, or mace)
They’re often dusted with sugar after cooking — just enough to catch the light and add a sparkle of sweetness.
At CwtchBakes, we adhere to tradition but love exploring new flavours—from chocolate chip to lemon and thyme, raspberry and white chocolate, and beyond.
How Are They Made?
Welsh Cakes are rolled out like cookie dough, cut into rounds, and then cooked on a hot griddle or flat pan. This method dates back generations — before most homes had ovens, families would use heavy cast-iron bakestones right on the fire.
Once cooked on both sides until golden, they’re cooled slightly and sometimes sprinkled with sugar. And that’s it: no icing, no filling, no fuss — just honest, homely flavour.
When Do You Eat Them?
Short answer: anytime!
Traditionally, Welsh Cakes were a teatime treat — perfect with a cup of tea and a bit of gossip. But they’re also great as a breakfast bite, a lunchbox snack, or something to nibble while wandering a market or walking the dog.
Some people eat them cold, some warm them up slightly, and others like to split and butter them (especially the thicker ones). There’s no wrong way — only your way.
A Bake with Heart
For many, Welsh Cakes are more than just a snack — they’re a memory. A link to childhood, to family, to culture. At CwtchBakes, we don’t just bake them; we honour them. Every batch is made with care, warmth, and a good sprinkle of Welsh pride.
So next time someone asks you, “What are Welsh Cakes?” — you can tell them they’re a little taste of Wales. Sweet, simple, and made with love.
Pop by and try one (or a few!) — we promise they’ll steal your heart.