Jamaican Rock Cake Recipe is a traditional Caribbean pastry known for its crumbly texture and bursts of sweet fruit, often enjoyed during teatime or as a snack.
The rich blend of nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a comforting aroma that fills the kitchen. I prepare this recipe for family who cherish home baked treats and Caribbean flavors.
Watching them eagerly anticipate each batch brings joy to the process. As the rock cakes bake, laughter echoes through the kitchen.
The warmth from the oven and the cheerful chatter create a heartfelt atmosphere, turning a simple recipe into a memorable culinary experience.
What Does Jamaican Rock Cake Recipe Taste Like?
Jamaican Rock Cake Recipe tastes rich, warm, and slightly sweet, carrying the comforting flavor of brown sugar blended with nutmeg and cinnamon.
The outside has a light, golden crispness, while the inside remains soft, crumbly, and moist from the dried fruits. Each bite offers a gentle burst of spice balanced by the chewy texture of raisins or currants.
There’s a rustic charm in its uneven surface, hinting at its homemade goodness. The flavor brings to mind cozy afternoons, family gatherings, and old fashioned baking traditions that never lose their magic. It’s a taste that lingers, both simple and deeply satisfying.
How To Prepare Jamaican Rock Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Dessert / Snack
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Jamaican
Yield: Makes 12 rock cakes
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking tray
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Fork or pastry cutter (for cutting in butter)
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten free all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ cup cold vegan butter, chopped
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 flax eggs
- 6 tablespoons almond milk
- 1 cup raisins
- ¼ cup chopped glace cherries
- ½ cup raisins
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
How To Make Jamaican Rock Cake Recipe?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes gelatinous.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the gluten free flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the cold, chopped vegan butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
4. Stir in the raisins, soaked raisins (drained), and chopped glace cherries. In a separate bowl, mix the flax eggs, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until just combined the dough should be slightly stiff and chunky. Scoop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each. Optionally, top each with a maraschino cherry.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Transfer the rock cakes to a cooling rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 211 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Sugars: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 0.5g
Special Notes
Soak the dried fruit in warm water for 10–15 minutes before adding them to the dough to prevent them from drying out during baking.
Ensure the butter is cold to achieve the desired crumbly texture. Store the cooled rock cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips
➤ Use cold butter to achieve the signature crumbly texture that defines Jamaican rock cakes.
➤ Soak dried fruits briefly in warm water to keep them plump and juicy during baking.
➤ Gently fold the ingredients to avoid overmixing, which can make the cakes tough instead of tender.
➤ Space the dough drops evenly on the baking tray to allow for proper rising and even cooking.
➤ Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack to maintain their crisp edges and prevent sogginess.
Healthy Nutrition Benefits
Jamaican Rock Cake offers a good source of dietary fiber from the raisins and gluten free flour, aiding digestion. The use of flax eggs provides omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health.
Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg have antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation. Vegan butter alternatives often contain healthier fats compared to traditional butter.
Almond milk adds vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E and calcium, contributing to overall nutritional value while keeping the recipe dairy free.
Storage And Shelf Life Jamaican Rock Cake Recipe
Jamaican Rock Cakes stay fresh for up to five days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping them in a cool, dry place helps maintain their crumbly texture and rich flavors.
For longer storage, freezing the rock cakes in a sealed bag preserves freshness for up to three months. Thawing at room temperature before serving allows them to regain their soft, tender quality.
Avoid refrigeration, as it can dry out the cakes and affect their taste and texture. Proper storage ensures each bite remains as delicious as the first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute The Dried Fruit In Jamaican Rock Cakes?
Absolutely. You can use raisins, currants, sultanas, or even chopped dried apricots, depending on your preference.
How Can I Make Jamaican Rock Cakes Dairy Free?
Swap the butter for a plant based alternative and use a non dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
Why Do Jamaican Rock Cakes Have A Rough, Uneven Surface?
The distinctive “rocky” texture comes from gently dropping spoonfuls of dough onto the tray without smoothing them out.
Can I Add Nuts To This Recipe?
Yes, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add extra crunch and flavor if desired.
Conclusion
Jamaican Rock Cake recipe brought easy success and filled my kitchen with warmth, flavor, and joy. The simple steps, rich spices, and fruity bursts made every bite a reminder of tradition and comfort.
Sharing them created smiles and sweet memories, proving that even humble ingredients can produce something truly special. I enjoyed every moment, from mixing the dough to watching the cakes rise golden and fragrant.
I hope you will try this recipe and experience the same happiness and satisfaction it brought to my table. It’s truly a recipe worth keeping.
Jamaican Rock Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes gelatinous.
- In a large bowl, sift together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the cold, chopped vegan butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Stir in the raisins, soaked raisins (drained), and chopped glacé cherries. In a separate bowl, mix the flax eggs, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until just combined the dough should be slightly stiff and chunky. Scoop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each. Optionally, top each with a maraschino cherry.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Transfer the rock cakes to a cooling rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 211 kcal | Total Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Carbohydrates: 29g | Sugars: 15g | Fiber: 1g | Protein: 3g | Sodium: 0.5g“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”