Quick Afternoon Treats

We've abandoned store bought treats and biscuits. Reading the ingredients list felt like we were purchasing a chemistry set! So when friends drop in unexpectedly in the afternoon its either a quick batch of scones or my favourite rock cakes!

Spiced Rock Cakes

These are super fast to make, perfect for when unexpected guests drop in.

Makes: around 20
Preparation: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Equipment:
large mixing bowl, measuring cup, wooden spoon, electric mixer (optional), 2 oven trays lined with baking paper
Oven at 200C

Ingredients
2 cups self raising flour
90 grams unsalted butter, chilled
½ cup caster sugar
½ cup mixed dried fruit
¼ cup dried cranberries or glace cherries
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Tiny pinch ground cloves
Grated lemon rind (optional)
1 egg
½ cup milk

Method
1. Place the flour in a large mixing bowl and rub in the butter with your fingertips till mixture resembles breadcrumbs, alternatively use in a an electric mixer
2. Mix in the sugar, spices, dried fruit and lemon rind (optional)
3. Combine the egg and the milk in the measuring cup and add it to the mix
4. Using a wooden spoon, mix till combined into a stiff dough
Spoon tablespoons onto prepared trays and bake for 15 minutes till golden