Eccles cake

Eccles cake is a small, round pastry originating from Eccles, Greater Manchester, England. Traditionally, it is made of flaky pastry filled with currants, sugar, and spices. Despite its name, an Eccles cake is more akin to a pastry or tart than a cake in the conventional sense. The history of the Eccles cake dates back to the late 18th century, making it a significant part of British culinary tradition.

History

The exact origins of the Eccles cake are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the town of Eccles in the 18th century. The first recorded sale of Eccles cakes was in 1793 by James Birch, who sold them from his shop located on the corner of Vicarage Road in Eccles. Since then, the popularity of Eccles cakes has spread, becoming a well-loved treat across the United Kingdom and in other parts of the world where British cuisine is appreciated.

Ingredients and Preparation

The primary ingredients of an Eccles cake include flour, butter, currants, sugar, and spices such as nutmeg and allspice. The process of making an Eccles cake involves rolling out flaky pastry dough, placing a mixture of currants, sugar, and spices in the center, and then folding the dough over the filling to create a round shape. The cakes are traditionally marked with three or four small cuts on the top before being glazed with egg and baked until golden brown.

Cultural Significance

Eccles cakes hold a special place in British culinary culture. They are often associated with the town of Eccles and are a symbol of local pride. The cakes are also linked to various British customs and celebrations, including tea time and Christmas festivities. Despite controversies in the past regarding health and safety regulations that threatened the traditional method of making Eccles cakes, they continue to be a popular snack and dessert, cherished for their rich history and delicious taste.

Legal and Geographical Protection

As of the time of writing, Eccles cakes do not have Protected Geographical Status under European Union law, unlike some other British foods. This means that they can be made and sold anywhere, without needing to adhere to specific regional production methods or ingredients. However, there have been discussions and efforts among producers in Eccles and the surrounding area to seek some form of recognition or protection to preserve the heritage and authenticity of Eccles cakes.

See Also

• British cuisine
• List of British desserts
• Pastry
• Currant

External Links

• Foods of England - Eccles Cakes