If you’ve never had a Welsh Cake before, you might wonder where it fits in the world of sweet treats. Is it a scone? A biscuit? A kind of cookie? The answer: it’s a bit of all three — but also entirely its own thing.
Let’s break down the differences, so next time someone asks, “What exactly is a Welsh Cake?” — you’ll be ready with the facts (and hopefully a few to share).
First, What Is a Welsh Cake?
A Welsh Cake is a small, round griddle cake traditionally made with flour, butter, sugar, dried fruit (usually currants), egg, and a hint of spice.
It’s cooked on a hot bakestone or griddle, giving it a golden crust and soft, buttery middle. Think of it as the love child of a scone and a cookie — born in Wales, raised with heart.
How Are Welsh Cakes Different from Scones?
| Welsh Cakes | Scones | |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Method | Cooked on a griddle or bakestone | Baked in the oven |
| Texture | Soft inside with a slight outer crisp | Light and fluffy, often more crumbly |
| Size | Small, palm-sized rounds | Usually larger and thicker, often wedge- or round-shaped |
| Serving Style | Served plain or sugared, eaten as-is | Often split and served with jam and cream |
| Sweetness | Lightly sweetened | Usually more neutral — can be sweet or savoury |
Welsh Cakes are portable, snack-sized, and ready to eat without any extras. No cream, no jam — just lovely as they are. However, we won’t stop you if you want to butter one!
How Are Welsh Cakes Different from Cookies?
| Welsh Cakes | Cookies | |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Soft, tender, slightly cakey | Can be soft, chewy, or crispy |
| Ingredients | More like a scone or shortcrust base | Often include more sugar and fat |
| Cooking Method | Cooked on a griddle | Baked in the oven |
| Flavour | Light spice and fruit | Chocolate chips, nuts, caramel, etc. |
| Origin | Welsh, traditional and homely | Widely American or international |
While cookies are usually more decadent and often more indulgent, Welsh Cakes are a bit more subtle — a tea-time classic rather than a dessert bomb.
Why We Love Welsh Cakes Best
At CwtchBakes, we think of Welsh Cakes as a bake with heart. They’re cosy, portable, and deeply nostalgic for many — the kind of treat passed down from nan’s kitchen, shared at family gatherings, or sent in care packages.
They’re perfect with a cuppa, easy to pack in a lunchbox, and just fancy enough for a special tea.
Final Thought: A Category of Their Own
So while they might remind you of scones, or look a bit like cookies, Welsh Cakes are truly their own thing — and that’s what makes them so special.
They’re a cwtch you can eat.
And honestly… isn’t that the best kind of treat?