London, a city renowned for its rich history and cultural diversity, is also a culinary hotspot. Its pastry scene is particularly vibrant, offering a delightful fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors. From the flaky scones served at high tea to the delicate tarts found in quaint patisseries, London’s pastry recipes have captivated taste buds for generations.
In this exploration, we will delve into some of the most iconic and beloved pastry recipes that London has to offer. From classic favorites to innovative creations, we will uncover the artistry and passion that goes into crafting these delectable treats.
Table of Contents
Classic English Scones
No exploration of London pastry recipes is complete without the quintessential English scone. Perfect for an afternoon tea, these scones are light, fluffy, and best enjoyed with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
Ingredients:
– 225g self-raising flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 50g unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 25g caster sugar
– 150ml whole milk
– 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Add the butter and rub in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring with a knife until the dough comes together. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly.
- Roll the dough to about 2 cm thick. Use a round cutter to stamp out scones and place them on the baking tray.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and risen. Serve warm with clotted cream and jam.
Lemon Curd Tarts
These delicate tarts are a favorite among London pastry recipes. The tangy lemon curd filling and crisp pastry shell make for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 200g plain flour
– 100g cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 50g icing sugar
– 1 egg yolk
– 2-3 tbsp cold water
– 4 large eggs
– 200g caster sugar
– 100ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Zest of 2 lemons
– 100g unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a bowl, mix the flour and icing sugar. Rub in the butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and enough water to bring the dough together. Roll out on a floured surface and line a tart tin.
- Prick the base with a fork, cover with baking parchment and baking beans, and bake blind for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment and beans, and bake for another 10 minutes.
- For the filling, whisk together eggs and caster sugar until pale and creamy. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and melted butter.
- Pour the filling into the tart shell and bake for 20-25 minutes until set. Cool before serving.
Eccles Cakes
A traditional British pastry, Eccles cakes are small, round pastries filled with currants and dusted with sugar. These cakes, named after the town of Eccles, are a cherished part of London pastry recipes.
Ingredients:
– 250g puff pastry
– 50g unsalted butter
– 100g soft brown sugar
– 150g currants
– 1 tsp mixed spice
– 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
– Granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Roll out the puff pastry and cut into circles using a round cutter.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and sugar. Stir in the currants and mixed spice, and cook for a few minutes. Allow to cool.
- Place a spoonful of the currant mixture in the center of each pastry circle. Draw up the edges to enclose the filling and pinch to seal. Flatten slightly with a rolling pin.
- Place on a baking tray, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Make two small cuts on top of each cake.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and puffed up. Cool on a wire rack.
A Culinary Journey Through Time
The allure of London pastry recipes is undeniable. These delectable treats offer a tantalizing blend of rich history and exquisite flavors. From the classic scones to the modern twists on lemon tarts, each pastry tells a unique story of London’s diverse culinary heritage. By incorporating these recipes into your own kitchen, you can embark on a flavorful journey through time and create unforgettable culinary experiences.
