Welsh cakes are a delightful traditional treat originating from Wales. These small, round, and flat cakes have a lovely crumbly texture, often infused with the flavors of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They are a popular choice for afternoon tea or as a quick snack. One question that often arises among baking enthusiasts is whether it’s possible to freeze Welsh cake dough.
What are Welsh Cakes?
Welsh cakes, also known as “picau ar y maen” in Welsh, are a beloved traditional delicacy.
They have been a part of Welsh culture for generations, offering a taste of nostalgia with every bite. These cakes are made using basic ingredients such as flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and dried fruit.
The dough is mixed together and then cooked on a griddle or a flat pan until it becomes beautifully golden on the outside and soft on the inside.
Preparing Welsh Cake Dough
Before diving into the freezing process, let’s go over the steps to prepare Welsh cake dough.
Ingredients
To make Welsh cake dough, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of caster sugar
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (diced)
- 1/3 cup of currants or raisins
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1 large egg
Mixing the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, caster sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
- Add the diced unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Rub the butter into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Stir in the currants or raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Beat the large egg in a separate bowl and then add it to the dry ingredients. Mix until you have a dough that holds together.
Freezing Welsh Cake Dough
Freezing Welsh cake dough can be a convenient way to have fresh, homemade treats at your disposal whenever you desire. Here are the reasons why freezing Welsh cake dough is a great idea:
Why Freeze Welsh Cake Dough?
- Time-Saving: By freezing the dough in advance, you can prepare a batch of Welsh cakes quickly whenever you have guests or a craving strikes.
- Reducing Waste: If you have leftover dough that you won’t use immediately, freezing prevents it from going to waste.
How to Freeze Welsh Cake Dough
- Divide and Wrap: Divide the dough into portions that suit your baking needs. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Storage Container: Place the wrapped dough portions in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bags. Remember to label them with the date for future reference.
- Freezing Time: Welsh cake dough can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Thawing Welsh Cake Dough
When the craving for Welsh cakes strikes, and you have frozen dough on hand, it’s time to thaw it.
- Refrigerator Thawing: The best way to thaw Welsh cake dough is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to defrost slowly to maintain its quality.
- Room Temperature Thawing: If you’re in a hurry, you can let the dough thaw at room temperature. However, be cautious not to leave it out for too long to avoid bacterial growth.
Baking Frozen Welsh Cake Dough
Baking frozen Welsh cake dough is a straightforward process.
- Preparation: Preheat your griddle or flat pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter.
- Cooking: Take the thawed dough and roll it out on a floured surface until it’s approximately 1/4-inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out individual cakes.
- Griddling: Cook the cakes on the preheated griddle for about 3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown.
Tips for Baking Frozen Dough
- Avoid overcrowding the griddle, as it may affect even cooking.
- You can add a sprinkle of sugar over the cakes while griddling to add a touch of sweetness.
Serving and Storing Welsh Cakes
Welsh cakes are best served warm, sprinkled with a bit of caster sugar. They are delightful on their own or paired with a cup of tea or coffee.
To store any leftover baked Welsh cakes, place them in an airtight container and consume them within a few days for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Yes, you can freeze cooked Welsh cakes. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe container.
Welsh cake dough can be frozen for up to three months. It is best to use it within this period to maintain its quality.
Yes, you can add dried fruit, such as currants or raisins, to the dough before freezing. They will add extra flavor to the cakes.
It is not recommended to freeze Welsh cakes with icing, as the icing may not hold up well during the freezing and thawing process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, freezing Welsh cake dough is a practical and efficient way to enjoy these delightful treats whenever you want.
By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you have freshly baked Welsh cakes at your disposal, ready to be served and savored.
Whether you’re hosting a tea party, welcoming guests, or simply indulging in a sweet moment for yourself, having frozen Welsh cake dough on hand will be a game-changer.
