Jamaican rock cake recipe is a traditional Caribbean baked treat made with flour, sugar, butter, dried fruits, and spices. This recipe usually yields about 12 rock cakes.
Watching Jamaican rock cake recipes can be done on cooking channels or online platforms like YouTube. The total time needed to make Jamaican rock cakes is around 35 minutes, including preparation and baking.
To make Jamaican rock cakes, first mix dry ingredients like flour, sugar, and spices. Then add cold butter and rub into the mixture.
Next, combine wet ingredients like egg and milk and mix into dry ingredients. Shape dough and bake until golden brown.
Why We Love This Recipe
I love this Jamaican rock cake recipe because it brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. The cakes have a wonderful balance of sweetness and warm spices, with bursts of chewy dried fruit in every bite.
They are easy to make, don’t take long, and always turn out with a delightful crumbly texture. Baking these cakes feels like a comforting experience that connects me to Caribbean culture and traditions.
Every time I make them, they remind me of home and bring joy to anyone who tries them. That’s why this recipe holds a special place in my kitchen.
How To Prepare Jamaican Rock Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Snack / Dessert
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Jamaican / Caribbean
Calories: Approximately 250 calories per cake (depends on size)
Yield: About 12 rock cakes
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Fork or pastry cutter
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- ½ cup cold vegan butter, chopped
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon pink Himalayan salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 large egg (or vegan egg substitute)
- ½ cup almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, glace cherries)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ¼ cup chopped glace cherries
- ½ cup raw cane sugar
- Extra granulated sugar, for sprinkling on top
How To Make Jamaican Rock Cake
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, pink salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and raising agents.
2. Add the cold, chopped vegan butter to the dry mix. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the mixed dried fruits, shredded coconut, and chopped glace cherries. Make sure they are evenly spread throughout the mixture. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg (or vegan substitute), almond milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to over mix; the batter should be thick and sticky.
5. Using a spoon, scoop portions of the batter onto the prepared baking tray, shaping them roughly into small, rustic mounds. Sprinkle the tops generously with raw cane sugar and a little extra granulated sugar for a crunchy crust.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack and serve.
Special Notes
❖ Fruit Variations: Feel free to swap out the mixed dried fruits with your favorites, such as dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots.
❖ Vegan Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
❖ Spice Level: Adjust the spices to your liking; Jamaican rock cakes are traditionally mildly spiced, but you can add a pinch of cloves or ginger for extra warmth.
Delicious Serving Ideas
The best way to serve Jamaican rock cake is warm, fresh from the oven, allowing their rich, fruity flavors to shine.
They pair wonderfully with a spread of vegan butter or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. For a delightful twist, serve them alongside a cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee.
Adding a side of fresh tropical fruit, like sliced mango or pineapple, can complement the cakes’ warm spices and create a balanced, tasty snack or dessert.
This simple serving makes the rock cakes even more enjoyable and inviting.
My Tips Tips For Success
➢ Keeping the butter cold before cutting it into the flour mixture helps create a crumbly, tender texture. If the butter warms up too much, the dough can become greasy and heavy. Work quickly to maintain the right consistency.
➢ Once you add the wet ingredients, stir just until everything comes together. Over mixing develops gluten and can make the cakes dense and tough instead of light and crumbly.
➢ Make sure to fold in the dried fruits, chopped cherries, coconut, and spices thoroughly but gently. This ensures that each rock cake has a balanced flavor with fruity sweetness and warm spice in every bite.
➢ Don’t worry about perfect shapes—part of the charm of rock cakes is their uneven, rustic appearance. Use a spoon to drop rough mounds onto the baking sheet for that classic rocky texture.
➢ Before baking, generously sprinkle raw cane sugar or granulated sugar over the tops. This creates a crunchy, sweet crust that contrasts nicely with the soft crumb inside and gives the cakes an appealing sparkle.
Health Benefits
Jamaican rock cakes made with wholesome ingredients like gluten-free flour, dried fruits, and spices offer some health benefits.
The dried fruits provide natural sweetness along with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support digestion and overall health.
Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add flavor while also having anti-inflammatory properties. Using vegan butter and plant-based milk can reduce saturated fat intake, making the recipe lighter and suitable for various dietary needs.
While still a treat, these rock cakes can be enjoyed as a more nourishing snack option when eaten in moderation.
Additions And Variations
Additions
◆ Chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds for crunch.
◆ Extra dried fruits such as chopped apricots or cranberries.
◆ Shredded carrot for natural sweetness and moisture.
◆ Seeds like chia or flaxseed for added texture and nutrition.
◆ A handful of oats to give a heartier bite.
Variations
◆ Spiced variation: Add ground ginger, allspice, or cloves along with cinnamon and nutmeg.
◆ Chocolate version: Mix in vegan chocolate chips or cocoa nibs.
◆ Citrus twist: Add lemon or orange zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
◆ Tropical flavor: Use coconut milk instead of almond milk and add crushed pineapple pieces.
◆ Glazed rock cakes: Brush with honey or maple syrup after baking for a shiny, sweet finish.
How To Store Leftovers
To store leftover Jamaican rock cakes, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to three days this way.
For longer storage, wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap or foil and freeze them. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven to enjoy the freshly baked taste.
Proper storage keeps the cakes moist and flavorful, allowing you to enjoy their delicious texture anytime.
FAQs About Jamaican Rock Cake:
Can I use different dried fruits in Jamaican rock cakes?
Yes, you can customize the recipe by using your favorite dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or chopped dates.
Are Jamaican rock cakes gluten-free?
Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend.
How long do Jamaican rock cakes keep fresh?
They stay fresh for about three days at room temperature in an airtight container.
Can I make Jamaican rock cakes vegan?
Yes, replace butter with coconut oil and use a flaxseed egg instead of a regular egg.
What spice gives Jamaican rock cakes their unique flavor?
A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice creates the classic warm, aromatic flavor typical of Jamaican rock cakes.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed making this easy and delicious Jamaican rock cake recipe. Baking these cakes brings a wonderful sense of accomplishment and joy, especially when you taste the perfect blend of spices and sweet dried fruits.
After making them, the flavor is rich and satisfying, with a lovely crumbly texture that makes every bite delightful. I’m sure once you try this recipe, you will find it as delicious as I did and want to make it again soon!
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Jamaican Rock Cake
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Fork or pastry cutter
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- ½ cup cold vegan butter chopped
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon pink Himalayan salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 large egg or vegan egg substitute
- ½ cup almond milk or other plant-based milk
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits raisins, currants, glace cherries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ¼ cup chopped glace cherries
- ½ cup raw cane sugar
- Extra granulated sugar for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, pink salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and raising agents.
- Add the cold, chopped vegan butter to the dry mix. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the mixed dried fruits, shredded coconut, and chopped glace cherries. Make sure they are evenly spread throughout the mixture. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg (or vegan substitute), almond milk, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to over mix; the batter should be thick and sticky.
- Using a spoon, scoop portions of the batter onto the prepared baking tray, shaping them roughly into small, rustic mounds. Sprinkle the tops generously with raw cane sugar and a little extra granulated sugar for a crunchy crust.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack and serve.