Welsh Cakes are small baked rounds, covered in sugar. They share the same consistency as a scone but are flat like a pancake and can be eaten with both sweet and savoury toppings. Now we have other ingredients that allow us to make a vegan version of these morish snacks.
What Are Welsh Cakes?
Welsh Cakes have been around since the 19th century and were traditionally cooked on a hot stone or ‘Bake Stone’ which is also another name they go by. These small rounds are traditionally baked with lard and butter as these were widely used at the time.
This recipe uses plant-based ingredients to create a dairy-free and vegan alternative but still delivers a moist and delicious outcome just like a traditional recipe.
Dairy Free and Vegan Welsh Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 225g Plain Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- Pinch of Salt
- 100g Vegan Spread
- Half a teaspoon of mixed spice – We used ginger and cinnamon but you can use any mixed spice straight from the store
- 50g Caster Sugar Plus Extra For Sprinkling
- 50g Currants
- 4 tbsp Oat or Soy Milk
- Banana (Optional)
Instructions
Start by weighing out your dry ingredients 22g plain flour, 50g caster sugar, a pinch of salt, 50g of currants, half a teaspoon of mixed spice (we used ginger and cinnamon) and a teaspoon of baking powder in a mixing bowl. Stir until mixed well.
Next, add 100g of vegan butter or vegan baking margarine to your dry mixture and rub it together with your finger and thumb to create a fine breadcrumb.
Slowly add 4 tablespoons of milk (we used Alpro soy milk) and mix with your hands until you have a stiff dough. If you are using a banana, you can add it at this point, add extra flour if you need to soak up any extra moisture.
With your rolling pin, roll out your pastry to around 5mm thick and use your cookie or biscuit cutter to cut out 16 cakes.
Lightly grease your pan with vegan butter and make sure the pan is hot and over medium heat. Cook on each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on both sides and the cakes look slightly risen.
Carefully remove your Welsh Cakes from the pan and place them on a cooling rack to cool for 10 minutes. Sprinkle generously with caster sugar and enjoy while they are warm.
Chef's tips
For this recipe, you'll need a cast iron pan, a rolling pin, a 6cm biscuit cutter, a mixing bowl, scales, and a wisk.
Use a creamy margarine baking spread for a melt-in-the-mouth texture
If you need more moisture add a mashed banana, which also gives it extra flavour!
Use cold hands while handling your dough to keep it cool and durable
Slightly heat your milk in the microwave for a few seconds before you add it to the mixture to it from drying out
You can freeze or keep any extra dough in the freezer wrapped or in a container for up to 3 months
Once cooked keep the Welsh Cakes in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Try them with vegan butter and a slice of plant-based cheese for a savoury snack
Related Questions
Are Welsh Cakes Vegan?
No, a traditional Welsh Cake recipe is not suitable for vegans because they are usually made with butter, lard and eggs. However, it is possible to substitute these ingredients with plant-based alternatives.
Can You Make Welsh Cakes Without Eggs?
Yes, you can make Welsh Cakes without wggs, check out the recipe below for a great egg and dairy-free guide.
Published: 8 November 2022