Orange, sultana and bran rock cakes

Orange and Sultana Bran rock cakes recipe

Although the name “rock cake” might not sound incredibly enticing, these half-biscuit-half-cake treats are not only delicious but also quick and simple to make, with a soft, crumbly texture that’s definitely more like a cake than a rock! Named for their rock-like shape and appearance, rock cakes became popular in Britain during the Second World War when people were encouraged to ration ingredients. Usually made with dried fruit, the cakes use less sugar and fewer eggs than traditional cake recipes, so they can also be cheaper to make. Our Orange & Sultana Bran rock cakes recipe gives you a warm batch of delicate, crumbly and tasty cakes in around 45 minutes, making them the perfect no-fuss bake.

How to make rock cakes

Our rock cake recipe is made using Sultana Bran cereal, a whole wheat option that already includes juicy sultanas, so you don’t need to add any extra fruit. You add the cereal to a simple dough of flour, baking powder, butter, sugar, egg and milk, with a little cinnamon and orange zest for added flavour (some recipes also use lemon zest instead of orange to add a little zing). The dough is made by rubbing the butter into the flour with your fingertips to create the crumb-like texture before adding the other ingredients. Then, just spoon little mounds of the dough onto trays and bake until golden brown. That’s it! It’s so easy to do, even the kids can help. And there’s no equipment required besides a bowl, a wooden spoon and a baking tray.

When to serve rock cakes

As they’re made using just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, rock cakes are the perfect treat to whip up at short notice – when the kids forgot to tell you about tomorrow’s bake sale, perhaps, or when you need some quick lunchbox fillers. They’re also simple yet crowd-pleasing bites that are ideal for serving at morning or afternoon tea, or when you’re asked to take a plate to a party. 

Now get cooking

For more irresistible bickie-like bakes and afternoon tea ideas, check out our range of tempting cookie recipes, including choc chip oat cookies and double choc-chip cookies, and our scone recipes, including blueberry scones and white choc and cranberry scones.