Rock cake

A rock cake, or rock bun, is a small, rugged-looking pastry with a texture that truly lives up to its name. These treats rose in popularity during World War II, largely due to initiatives by the Ministry of Food. They required fewer eggs and less sugar than traditional cakes, which was a major advantage during rationing. Back then, oatmeal was often utilized as it was more readily available than white flour.

The origins of rock cakes trace back even further. Mrs. Beeton's renowned 1861 recipe book features early versions of these cakes. Her recipes varied, with some incorporating baking powder and lemon, while others resembled shortbread with currants.

Today's rock cake recipes typically call for flour, butter or margarine, sugar, eggs, baking powder, milk, and dried fruits. Spices and sometimes oatmeal are added to form a stiff dough. This dough is then spooned onto a baking tray and baked until the cakes achieve their signature uneven, rocky appearance.

Rock cakes have also permeated popular culture. They appear in Agatha Christie's novels and the Harry Potter series. Additionally, they've been featured in films like "The African Queen" and "Goodbye, Mr. Chips." In the British soap opera "EastEnders" they can be found in the local cafe. In P.G. Wodehouse's novel "Sam the Sudden" a character is humorously warned about consuming rock cakes made by a particular cook.