Discover the delightful flavours and rich tradition of Parkin, a beloved treat in the North of England. This traditional gingerbread or sticky cake is cherished for its warm spices and comforting sweetness, making it the perfect indulgence on chilly winter evenings. Join us on a journey to bake a toothsome Parkin using Mary. Get ready to experience the enticing aroma and delectable taste of this timeless delight.
Ingredients:
- 2 beaten eggs
- 3 fl oz milk
- 50g soft brown sugar
- 100g oatmeal
- 175g butter
- 225g plain flour
- 270g black treacle
- 280g golden syrup
- ½ tablespoon cinnamon
- ½ tablespoon nutmeg
- ½ tablespoon bicarbonate of soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
Method:
- Start by greasing an 8-inch square cake tin with butter, ensuring all sides are well coated.
- Preheat the oven to approximately 180 degrees Celsius, allowing it to reach the desired temperature.
- In a bowl, thoroughly mix the flour, ground ginger, oatmeal, spices, and bicarbonate of soda.
- Take a pan and melt the butter, sugar, treacle, and golden syrup over low heat. Once melted, remove from the heat and let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes.
- Pour the cooled mixture into the dry ingredients, combining them gently. Stir in the beaten eggs and milk, ensuring all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the smooth batter into the greased cake tin, spreading it evenly.
- Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 to 60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a skewer into the cake—it should come out clean.
- Once baked, leave the cake in the tin to cool, allowing it to set and develop its distinct texture.
- Once completely cooled, cut the Parkin into delectable pieces. For an extra touch, garnish with berries or any desired toppings.
Helpful Hints:
- Parkin tastes even better when allowed to mature for a day or two, so consider storing it in an airtight container before serving.
- Serve Parkin alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a truly comforting experience.
- Experiment with different types of oats, such as rolled oats or steel-cut oats, to add variety to the texture of your Parkin.
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a handful of chopped stem ginger to the batter before baking.
- Traditionally, Parkin is enjoyed during Bonfire Night celebrations, but it’s equally delightful at any time of the year.
Indulge in the time-honoured delight of traditional Parkin, using Mary Berry’s recipe. Whether shared at a tea party or savoured during quiet moments, this luscious treat will surely captivate your taste buds. Treat yourself to a slice of warm Parkin, and savour the heartwarming flavours that have delighted generations.
