No Fuss Gluten-Free Welsh Griddle Cakes Recipe
Gluten-free Welsh griddle cakes, these little beauties have been a staple of Welsh baking for generations, traditionally cooked on a bakestone or griddle.
Our gluten-free version maintains all the charm of the original, just without the wheat flour that might upset those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivities.
Picture this: a cake that’s part scone, part biscuit, entirely delicious.
Our gluten-free version uses a classic mix of rice flour, butter, and egg to capture that quintessential tender crumb.
Studded with currants, kissed with nutmeg, and dusted with a cheeky sprinkle of sugar – these aren’t just cakes, they’re edible comfort.
Perfect with a proper brew, these griddle cakes prove that gluten-free doesn’t mean flavour-free.
They’re simple to make, impossible to resist, and guaranteed to become your new teatime obsession.
Grab your griddle and let’s get baking, shall we?
Table of Contents
What you’ll love about this recipe
Authentically Delicious, Brilliantly Adapted
These aren’t some sad, pale imitation of traditional Welsh cakes – they’re a proper culinary triumph, a firm family favourite.
By using carefully crafted gluten-free flour blends with ingredients like rice flour, and tapioca starch, bakers have managed to create a treat that’s virtually indistinguishable from the classic version.
You’ll get that same golden, buttery texture and rich, comforting flavour that Welsh cakes are renowned for, without a hint of compromise.
Quick and Utterly Convenient
Let’s be honest – who doesn’t love a recipe that goes from ingredients to delectable treat in under 30 minutes?
These gluten-free Welsh cakes are a baker’s dream, requiring minimal preparation and cooking time.
Most recipes take just 15-20 minutes total, meaning you can whip up a batch faster than you can brew a proper cuppa. Perfect for spontaneous afternoon treats or when you’re craving something sweet but can’t be bothered with complicated baking.
Wonderfully Versatile and Adaptable
These little griddle cakes are the chameleons of the baking world. Want them dairy-free? No problem. Prefer a different dried fruit instead of currants.
Go right ahead. Some clever bakers even experiment with additions like walnuts or apricots.
The basic recipe is so robust that you can tweak and personalise it to your heart’s content, making each batch a unique culinary adventure.
Inclusive and Dietary-Friendly
In a world where dietary restrictions can often feel limiting, these gluten-free Welsh cakes are a beacon of inclusivity. Whether you’re coeliac, gluten-sensitive, or simply exploring alternative baking, these cakes ensure nobody misses out on a beloved traditional treat.
They’re proof that dietary requirements needn’t mean sacrificing flavour, tradition, or pure deliciousness.
Ingredients
- 225g gluten-free self-raising flour
- Pinch of salt
- 110g butter
- 60g caster sugar
- 60g currants
- 1 medium egg
- 1/2 nutmeg
- 2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the gluten-free self-raising flour and a pinch of salt. This helps aerate the flour and remove any lumps. Next, add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. This process should take about 5 minutes and is crucial for achieving the right texture.
- Gently fold in the caster sugar, currants and nutmeg ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Take care not to overmix at this stage, as it can make the cakes tough.
- In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the egg with a fork. Combine this with the milk, whisking briefly to incorporate. Make a well in the centre of your dry ingredients and slowly pour in the egg-milk mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix everything together to form a soft, slightly sticky dough. If it seems too dry, add a splash more milk.
- Lightly dust a clean work surface with gluten-free flour. Turn out your dough and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Using a rolling pin, carefully roll the dough out to about 6mm (¼ inch) thickness, trying to maintain an even thickness throughout.
- Take a 6cm (2.5 inch) round pastry cutter and firmly press it into the dough to cut out circles. Gather any scraps, gently re-roll, and cut out more circles until all the dough is used.
- Place a heavy-based frying pan or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil. Once the pan is hot (test by sprinkling a few drops of water – they should sizzle immediately), carefully place a few Welsh cakes onto the surface, leaving space between each one.
- Cook the Welsh cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side. They should develop a golden-brown colour with a slightly crisp exterior. Flip them gently using a spatula, taking care not to break them. Adjust the heat if they’re browning too quickly or slowly.
- Once cooked, transfer the Welsh cakes to a wire rack to cool slightly. They can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, split them and spread with a little butter while still warm. Dust with extra caster sugar if desired.
What to serve with gluten-free Welsh griddle cakes
Warm and Buttery Bliss
There’s something magical about spreading melted butter over a freshly cooked Welsh griddle cake while it’s still warm. The butter seeps into the tiny crevices, creating a rich, indulgent experience that transforms these simple cakes into a truly luxurious treat.
Sugar-Dusted Delight
A light dusting of additional caster sugar adds a delightful sweetness and creates a beautiful, sparkling finish. This simple touch elevates the Welsh cake from a humble snack to an elegant afternoon treat.
Herbed Cream Cheese Topping
Transform your Welsh cake into a sophisticated canapé by spreading it with herbed cream cheese. The creamy, aromatic topping adds a sophisticated twist to this traditional treat.
Breakfast Brilliance
Serve Welsh cakes alongside crispy bacon and eggs for a hearty breakfast that breaks away from traditional toast or bread. They’re particularly delightful when used to mop up runny egg yolks. A particular favourite of mine!
Traditional English Breakfast Tea
Nothing complements a Welsh cake quite like a robust cup of traditional English breakfast tea. The strong, malty flavours perfectly balance the cake’s sweetness.
Earl Grey Elegance
The bergamot notes in Earl Grey tea provide a sophisticated and aromatic pairing that elevates the humble Welsh cake.
Are you ready to check out my gluten-free Welsh cakes? Then let’s get going:
Gluten-Free Welsh Griddle Cakes Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Table Spoon
- Measuring Jug
- Griddle Pan
- Round Pastry Cutter
Ingredients
- 225 g Gluten free self-raising flour
- Pinch of salt
- 110 g Butter
- 60 g Castor sugar
- 60 g Currents
- 1 Medium egg
- 2 tbsp Milk
- 1/2 tsp Nutmeg
Instructions
- Mix the flour and salt and rub in the butter until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Stir in the sugar ,nutmeg and the currants.
- Mix it to a fairly soft dough with the beaten egg and milk.
- Roll out to ¼ inch thickness and use a pastry cutter to cut into rounds.
- Cook on a greased griddle pan, moderate heat for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Serve the cakes buttered, hot or cold.
Nutrition
If you enjoyed this gluten-free recipe, then check out more below 👇
- Gluten-free fruit scones
- Gluten-free chocolate cupcakes
- Gluten-free butterfly cakes
- Gluten-free sweet potato muffins
Gluten-Free Welsh Griddle Cakes recipe tips
Here are some tips to help you make the most out of my gluten-free Welsh griddle cake recipe:
Avoid Cross-Contamination
If you’re preparing your gluten-free Welsh griddle cakes in a kitchen that is not entirely gluten-free, take precautions to avoid cross-contamination.
Use separate utensils, cutting boards, and cooking surfaces to prevent gluten from contacting the ingredients.
When possible, do not use wooden utensils, cutting boards, and rolling pins that are used with gluten.
Preparation and Mixing
Use gluten-free self-raising flour, and if it doesn’t contain xanthan gum, add 1/2 teaspoon to improve texture.
Keep your butter chilled and rub it into the flour until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
The dough should be slightly sticky – don’t worry if it feels different from traditional wheat-based dough.
Cooking Techniques
Ensure your griddle or frying pan is hot before starting, similar to making pancakes.
Cook on medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, aiming for a golden brown colour.
Be gentle when turning the cakes to prevent breaking them.
Troubleshooting
If the cakes turn out dry, add a little extra milk to soften the mixture.
Don’t let cut-out cakes sit too long before cooking, as this can cause dryness.
Use fresh flour with active raising agents to ensure proper texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Welsh Griddle Cakes?
Welsh griddle cakes are traditional sweet treats from Wales, typically cooked on a flat griddle or frying pan. The gluten-free version maintains the classic recipe by using special gluten-free flour blends.
Can I Make Welsh Cakes Without Gluten?
Absolutely! Most recipes use gluten-free self-raising flour, and you can easily add 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum to improve texture if your flour blend doesn’t already include it.
What Equipment Do I Need?
You’ll want:
- A mixing bowl
- Weighing scales
- Griddle pan or heavy-based frying pan
- Pastry cutter
- Rolling pin
How Long Do They Take to Cook?
Welsh cakes typically cook for 3-4 minutes on each side over medium heat, until they’re golden brown.
Can I Modify the Recipe?
Yes! You can:
- Swap currants for sultanas
- Replace mixed spices with individual spices like nutmeg or cinnamon
- Use different dried fruits or even chocolate chips
How Should I Store Them?
Welsh cakes keep well in an airtight container for 2-3 days and can be served hot or cold.
Are They Suitable for Other Dietary Requirements?
Many recipes can be adapted for different dietary needs, including dairy-free and low FODMAP variations.
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Becky Terrell ✍️
Hi, I am Becky. I am a passionate recipe maker and having been a coeliac (celiac) for 30+ years I focus on gluten-free recipes. My blog is my online cookbook of gluten-free tasty recipes. You can follow me on X: @beckygwg
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Comments
There are 4 comments on this post. Leave a comment 👇
This looks nice! want to try making it at home because it looks cute and delicious.
These traditional treats are a breeze to make and taste amazing with a spread of butter.
I’d never tried these before but they’re my new breakfast treat
A traditional treat that’s easy to make and brings a taste of Wales to my kitchen.