Eccles Cakes

Can anyone tell me about them? I know I've seen mentions, and I ran into packets being sold in an imports shop, last week. The look very like (American) biscuits, studded with currants. I almost bought some, but I can make currant scones myself, if I want them; and a dire need to shed some weight detracted from their own 'weighty' appearance. Please, can anyone help me out on the differences between Eccles cakes and currant scones, their making or their history?

Traditional Eccles cakes are a buttery puff pastry filled with currants. Sugar is sprinkled on top. Different texture to a scone, more like a Danish pastry. My mother used to make Eccles cakes when I was young. Unfortunately little kids don't want cakes with dried fruit in them.... well, I didn't anyhow. Nowadays I would love to eat them :)

They originated from the town of Eccles in Salford, Lancashire.

Can't really add much to what digifish has already said but I can vouch for this recipe - Delia's Eccles Cakes

the pastry is flaky, not at all scone-like. They are superb with a sharp cheddar and a cup of tea.

Now I'm very regretful at not buying them. They sound delicious. The shop is a good forty-minute drive - and I don't drive! Going is dependent on others' goodwill, or necessity. (Lots of doctors' offices in that area.) So.... perhaps I will try out jargoneer's recipe (now printed), or make a time to go in for them. The next time I do see Eccles cakes, helpfully made for me, I'll certainly buy them!

Thanks to all of you for your help! - Especially digifish's history, jargoneer's recipe, and tiffin's eating recommendation (which, of all things, sells me).

Eccles cakes are very tasty indeed - when they are made well.

Now then, anyone for Chorley cakes?

> 7 hehe :) I notice the chorley cake article mentions Lancashire cheese, which is my all-time favourite cheese. I blame my genetic heritage for liking all of this stuff :P

Oh, goodness.... it all sounds so good. And I needing to lose weight!

And, chamekke - I am definitely up for Chorley cakes, as described. :) (Thank you yet again for the wonderful food-related sakura links!)