A Traditional Northern Bake

Spelt Yorkshire Parkin is a moist, sticky ginger cake from northern England. It combines warming spices, golden syrup, and hearty spelt flour. Perfect for tea time or dessert, it keeps soft for days. The spelt flour adds a nutty, wholesome flavour. It’s simple to make and fills the kitchen with aroma.

Why This Cake Works

Spelt flour creates a tender, dense crumb. Golden syrup and treacle give moisture and stickiness.
Spices add warmth and depth of flavour. The cake improves in flavour the next day. It stores well and is ideal for sharing.

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 40 mins

Total Time 55 mins

Cuisine: British

Courses: Dessert, snack

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 12

Estimated Cost: 4

Calories: 250

Best Season: Fall, Winter

Description

Traditional Yorkshire parkin made with spelt flour, golden syrup, treacle, and warming spices. Moist, sticky, and full of flavour, this classic ginger cake is perfect for tea time, family gatherings, or gifting. Easy to prepare and keeps well for several days.

Ingredients

Parkin Mixture

200 g spelt flour
100 g rolled oats
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground ginger
½ tsp mixed spice
½ tsp ground cinnamon
100 g butter
100 g light brown sugar
100 g golden syrup
50 g black treacle
120 ml milk

Instructions

Preheat oven.

1
Heat oven to 180°C. Grease and line a 20 cm square tin.

Mix dry ingredients.

2
In a bowl, combine spelt flour, oats, baking powder, and spices.

Heat wet ingredients.

3
In a small saucepan, melt butter, sugar, golden syrup, and treacle. Stir until smooth.

Combine mixtures.

4
Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients. Add milk and stir until smooth.

Bake.

5
Pour batter into prepared tin. Bake for 35–40 minutes until firm and golden.

Cool.

6
Allow to cool completely in tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Serve.

7
Slice into squares and enjoy. The cake improves after resting overnight.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12

Amount Per Serving
Calories 250kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 8g13%
Saturated Fat 5g25%
Cholesterol 20mg7%
Sodium 120mg5%
Potassium 180mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 22g
Protein 4g8%

* 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

Golden syrup and treacle provide sticky texture.
Use fresh spices for best flavour.
The cake keeps moist for up to 4 days at room temperature.

Optional Substitutions & Variations

Substitute milk with plant-based milk for vegan option.
Add 50 g chopped crystallised ginger for extra warmth.
Use maple syrup instead of golden syrup.
Sprinkle oats on top for decoration.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store in an airtight tin at room temperature.
Wrap slices in foil for gifting.
Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

Keywords: spelt cake, Yorkshire parkin, ginger cake, traditional British bake

Tips & Variations

Ensure the wet ingredients are fully combined before mixing with dry.
Do not overbake to keep the parkin moist and sticky.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a cup of tea or coffee.
Spread lightly with butter if desired.
Pair with custard for dessert.

Conclusion

Spelt Yorkshire Parkin is a classic northern British ginger cake.
It is sticky, moist, and full of warming spices.
Simple ingredients and easy steps make it ideal for any baker.
Bake a tin and enjoy a traditional treat at home.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-yorkshire-parkin/

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!