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Spelt Black Bun: Scottish New Year Cake

Side-angle close-up of sliced Spelt Black Bun showing spiced fruit filling and crisp spelt pastry. Slice pulled slightly forward.

Traditional Flavour, Simple Method

Spelt Black Bun is a classic Scottish cake, packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warming spices, all encased in a crisp spelt pastry. It’s a festive treat for Hogmanay or any winter celebration. This recipe keeps the preparation clear and manageable, giving reliable results every time.

Why You’ll Love It

The spelt flour gives a nutty, wholesome flavour while the pastry stays crisp. The dark fruits and spices infuse deep, warming notes. Despite its rich ingredients, the method is straightforward, letting you enjoy a traditional cake without fuss. Slice it thinly — a little goes a long way.

Prep Time 40 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Rest Time 2 hrs
Total Time 3 hrs 25 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8
Estimated Cost: 10
Calories: 420
Best Season: Winter
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description

A classic Scottish New Year’s cake with spelt flour pastry and a rich, fruity, spiced filling. Perfect for Hogmanay or winter celebrations. Easy method with reliable, festive results.

Ingredients
    Spelt Pastry
  • 225 g spelt flour (wholegrain)
  • 125 g unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
  • 25 g sugar (caster)
  • ½ tsp salt (fine)
  • 2-3 tbsp 2–3 (as needed)
    • Fruity Spiced Filling
  • 150 g currants
  • 100 g sultanas
  • 100 g dried figs (chopped)
  • 50 g mixed peel (chopped)
  • 75 g blanched almonds (chopped)
  • 100 g soft brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ground allspice
  • 1 Zest of lemon
  • 50 ml brandy or whisky
Instructions
    Prepare filling.
  1. 1
    Mix all dried fruits, nuts, sugar, spices, and zest in a bowl. Add brandy or whisky and soak for 30 minutes.
    2. Make pastry.
  2. 2
    Combine spelt flour, sugar, and salt. Rub in cold butter until mixture forms coarse crumbs. Add cold water gradually until dough holds.
    3. Roll pastry.
  3. 3
    Roll out two-thirds for the base to fit a 20cm (8-inch) round tin. Reserve remaining for the top.
    4. Fill bun.
  4. 4
    Place pastry in tin. Press filling evenly. Cover with remaining pastry and seal edges.
    5. Chill.
  5. 5
    Chill for 30 minutes before baking to keep pastry firm.
    6. Bake.
  6. 6
    Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 40–45 minutes until golden. Cool in tin for 15 minutes, then remove and cool completely.
    7. Rest.
  7. 7
    Wrap in parchment and store at room temperature for at least 24 hours to develop flavour.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 420kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 21g33%
Saturated Fat 10g50%
Cholesterol 40mg14%
Sodium 110mg5%
Potassium 320mg10%
Total Carbohydrate 48g16%
Dietary Fiber 5g20%
Sugars 25g
Protein 6g12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes

  • The bun improves with a day of resting.
  • Slice thinly — rich and filling.
  • Can be wrapped in foil and kept for up to 1 week.

Optional Substitutions & Variations

  • Use raisins instead of sultanas.
  • Add 25 g chopped dark chocolate for extra richness.
  • Replace brandy with orange juice for alcohol-free version.
  • Use pecans instead of almonds for a different nutty note.
Keywords: spelt black bun, Scottish New Year cake, fruit cake recipe, Hogmanay cake,

Tips & Variations

  • Spice balance: Adjust cinnamon and nutmeg according to taste; add a pinch of cloves for warmth.
  • Pastry texture: Keep butter very cold and handle dough minimally to get a crisp crust.
  • Serving idea: Serve with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for a festive touch.

Conclusion

Spelt Black Bun is a timeless Scottish New Year treat. The rich, spiced filling and crisp pastry make it festive yet simple to prepare. Try it for Hogmanay or as a winter celebration dessert. Share it, slice it thin, and enjoy the traditional flavours.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-black-bun-scottish-new-year-cake/
Valentina - Spelt Recipes
Valentina
A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!