Description
Classic Mary Berry Oatmeal Parkin celebrates traditional British baking with rich molasses and warming spices. Ginger-infused comfort emerges from this nostalgic northern England treat that delights with its deep, satisfying flavor and crumbly texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 200g (7 ounces) butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 250g (8.8 ounces) self-raising flour
- 200g (7 ounces) golden syrup
Spices and Sweeteners:
- 85g (3 ounces) light soft brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 85g (3 ounces) treacle
Binding Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 100g (3.5 ounces) medium oatmeal
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by warming it to 160 degrees Celsius (320 degrees Fahrenheit), adjusting to 140 degrees Celsius (285 degrees Fahrenheit) for convection settings. Coat a 22-centimeter (8.7-inch) square baking pan with unsalted butter and create a protective lining using parchment paper.
- Whisk together the egg and whole milk in a medium mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
- In a large saucepan, gently melt golden syrup, dark treacle, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter over low heat. Ensure complete sugar dissolution, then remove from heat source.
- Combine rolled oatmeal, all-purpose flour, and ground ginger in a separate mixing bowl. Carefully fold this dry mixture into the warm syrup blend.
- Incorporate the egg and milk mixture into the saucepan, stirring until a smooth, uniform batter forms. Transfer the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Position the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 to 60 minutes. Test for doneness by gently pressing the surface – it should feel firm and spring back slightly.
- Allow the gingerbread to cool completely within the baking pan. Once cooled, wrap securely in parchment paper and aluminum foil. For optimal flavor development, allow the cake to rest for three to five days. The texture will become increasingly moist and rich, with the cake remaining delectable for up to two weeks when stored properly.
Notes
- Harness the magic of northern English baking with this generations-old comfort food steeped in cultural heritage.
- Discover how oatmeal transforms this cake into a uniquely dense, moisture-rich treat that gets better with time.
- Experience the warmth of Bonfire Night through a traditional cake that captures the cozy spirit of autumn and winter.
- Unlock the deep, complex flavors created by molasses and treacle that develop and intensify during the cake’s resting period.
- Embrace the classic British preservation technique of wrapping Parkin in baking paper and foil to maintain its signature soft, sticky texture.
- Let ginger’s warming spice dance with sweet, sticky notes, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that warms both body and soul.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: UK
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 731 kcal
- Sugar: 72 g
- Sodium: 268 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 21 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 98 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 36 mg