Making bread at home is a joy, but when it comes to stottie cake, it’s more than just baking—it’s a slice of history. This iconic bread from North East England is loved for its dense, chewy texture and flat, round shape. Traditionally baked in coal ovens, the stottie cake has been a staple of Geordie culture for generations. But guess what? You don’t need a coal oven to enjoy this classic treat anymore! With a bread machine, you can whip up a delicious stottie cake recipe bread machine version right in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making stottie cake, from its cultural roots to step-by-step instructions for using a bread machine. We’ll also share tips for achieving the perfect texture, common mistakes to avoid, and creative ways to serve this British classic. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, this guide will help you bring a taste of Newcastle into your home.
Let’s dive into the world of stottie cake and discover why it’s a must-try for bread lovers everywhere!
Introduction to Stottie Cake
What is Stottie Cake?
A stottie cake is a traditional British bread that hails from the North East of England, particularly Newcastle and its surrounding areas. Despite its name, it’s not a cake at all—it’s a flat, round loaf with a dense, chewy texture. The word “stottie” comes from the Geordie term “to stot,” meaning “to bounce,” because the dough was once tested by bouncing it off the kitchen floor!
Unlike fluffy sandwich bread, stottie cake is hearty and substantial, making it perfect for holding heavy fillings like ham and pease pudding. Its thick crust and soft interior make it a versatile bread that’s equally delicious with savory or sweet toppings.
Cultural Significance in North East England
The stottie cake isn’t just food—it’s a symbol of Geordie pride and resilience. Historically, it was made from leftover dough and baked in coal ovens, a practical solution for working-class families who needed affordable, filling bread. Over time, it became a beloved staple in the region, often served at family gatherings, picnics, and even local bakeries.
Today, the stottie cake remains a cherished part of British baking, celebrated for its simplicity and versatility. It’s a bread that tells a story of resourcefulness and tradition, connecting generations through its unmistakable taste and texture.
With modern appliances like bread machines, you can now recreate this iconic bread at home, preserving its rich heritage while enjoying the convenience of modern baking. So, are you ready to try your hand at making a stottie cake recipe bread machine? Let’s get started!
Traditional vs. Modern Stottie Cake Preparation
Traditional Baking Methods
The stottie cake has humble beginnings, rooted in the kitchens of North East England. Traditionally, it was made from leftover white bread dough. Instead of wasting scraps, bakers shaped the dough into large, flat discs and baked them at the bottom of coal ovens. This slow, even baking gave the bread its signature chewy texture and thick crust.
Back then, the process was simple but time-consuming. The dough was kneaded by hand, left to rise once, and then baked at a low temperature. The result? A dense, hearty bread that could hold up to heavy fillings like ham and pease pudding. Families loved it because it was affordable, filling, and easy to make with basic ingredients.
However, not everyone has the time—or a coal oven—to bake bread the old-fashioned way. That’s where modern methods come in!
Adapting Stottie Cake for Bread Machines
Thanks to bread machines, making a stottie cake recipe bread machine is now easier than ever. These handy appliances take care of the hard work, like kneading and proofing, so you can focus on enjoying the process. While the texture might differ slightly from the traditional version, a bread machine still produces a delicious loaf with minimal effort.
The bread machine simplifies the process by automating the kneading and rising stages. Once the dough is ready, you can shape it into the classic flat, round form and bake it in your oven for that authentic stottie crust. This modern adaptation keeps the spirit of the stottie cake alive while making it accessible to home bakers everywhere.
Whether you stick to the traditional method or embrace the convenience of a bread machine, the stottie cake recipe bread machine is a wonderful way to enjoy this British classic.
Essential Ingredients for Stottie Cake
Flour Selection
The key to a perfect stottie cake recipe bread machine is choosing the right flour. For the best results, use strong bread flour. This type of flour is high in protein, which helps create the chewy texture that makes stottie cake so unique. Regular all-purpose flour can work in a pinch, but it won’t give you the same structure or elasticity.
If you want to experiment, you can mix bread flour with a small amount of whole wheat flour for added flavor and density. However, for a classic stottie, stick to plain white bread flour.
Yeast and Leavening Agents
Yeast is another essential ingredient for your stottie cake recipe bread machine. Instant yeast works best for bread machines because it doesn’t need to be activated beforehand. Simply add it to the dry ingredients, and the bread machine will handle the rest.
For a richer flavor, some bakers like to add a pinch of sugar or a tablespoon of milk powder. These optional ingredients enhance the taste and texture of the bread, but they’re not necessary for a traditional stottie.
Optional Additions
While the classic stottie cake is simple, you can customize your recipe to suit your taste. Want a savory twist? Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. Prefer something sweeter? Mix in a handful of raisins or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
No matter how you choose to make it, the right ingredients are the foundation of a great stottie cake recipe bread machine. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a loaf that’s both delicious and steeped in tradition.
Step-by-Step Stottie Cake Recipe for Bread Machines
Preparing the Dough
Making a stottie cake recipe bread machine is simple when you follow the right steps. Start by gathering all your ingredients. Bread machines work best when you add the ingredients in the correct order. Typically, you’ll add the wet ingredients first, like water or milk, followed by the dry ingredients, such as flour, salt, and yeast.
Be sure to measure everything carefully! Too much or too little of any ingredient can affect the dough’s texture. Once everything is in the bread machine, select the “Dough” cycle. This setting will knead and proof the dough for you, saving you time and effort.
While the machine works its magic, check the dough after a few minutes of kneading. If it looks too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it feels smooth and elastic.
Shaping the Dough
Once the dough cycle is complete, it’s time to shape your stottie cake. Remove the dough from the bread machine and place it on a lightly floured surface. Gently shape it into a flat, round disc, about the size of a dinner plate.
Stottie cakes are known for their unique shape, so don’t skip this step! Use your fingers or the end of a rolling pin to make a small indentation in the center of the dough. This helps the bread bake evenly and keeps it from puffing up too much.
After shaping, place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for about 30–45 minutes. This second rise is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
Baking Process
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the dough is rising. Once the dough has doubled in size, it’s ready to bake. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the stottie cake is golden brown.
For an extra crispy crust, you can place a small tray of water in the oven to create steam. Once baked, let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Congratulations—you’ve just made a delicious stottie cake recipe bread machine!
Tips for Achieving Authentic Stottie Cake Texture
Kneading and Proofing Techniques
The secret to a perfect stottie cake recipe bread machine lies in the kneading and proofing process. Even though the bread machine handles most of the kneading, it’s a good idea to check the dough’s consistency. A well-kneaded dough should feel smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
Proofing, or letting the dough rise, is just as important. The first rise happens in the bread machine, but the second rise occurs after you’ve shaped the dough. Make sure to let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot. If the dough doesn’t rise enough, your stottie cake may turn out too dense.
Baking Temperature and Time
Getting the baking temperature and time just right is key to achieving the authentic stottie texture. Bake your bread at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes—if the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
For that classic chewy texture, avoid overbaking. The bread should have a golden crust and a soft, dense interior. If you’re unsure, tap the bottom of the loaf—it should sound hollow when it’s done.
For more delicious bread recipes, check out our article on FestRecipes. You’ll find plenty of inspiration for your next baking adventure!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Stottie Cake
Overproofing or Underproofing the Dough
One of the most common mistakes when making a stottie cake recipe bread machine is not proofing the dough correctly. If you let the dough rise for too long (overproofing), it can collapse during baking, leaving you with a flat, dense loaf. On the other hand, if you don’t let it rise enough (underproofing), the bread will be too heavy and won’t have the soft, chewy texture that makes stottie cake so special.
To avoid this, keep an eye on the dough during the second rise. It should double in size but not go beyond that. A warm, draft-free spot is ideal for proofing, and checking the dough after 30–45 minutes will help you get it just right.
Using the Wrong Flour
Another mistake is using the wrong type of flour. Stottie cake relies on strong bread flour to create its dense yet soft texture. If you use all-purpose flour, the bread may turn out too soft and won’t hold its shape as well.
Stick to bread flour for the best results, and don’t forget to measure your ingredients carefully. Even a small mistake in the amount of flour or water can throw off the dough’s consistency.
Skipping the Indentation
The small indentation in the center of the dough isn’t just for looks—it’s an important step in making a proper stottie cake. Without it, the bread may puff up too much in the oven, losing its signature flat shape.
Before baking, use your fingers or a rolling pin to press a shallow dent into the center of the dough. This simple step ensures your stottie cake bakes evenly and keeps its traditional appearance.
Serving and Storing Stottie Cake
How to Serve Stottie Cake
Stottie cake is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a variety of meals and snacks. Traditionally, it’s served as a sandwich bread, filled with hearty ingredients like ham and pease pudding. The dense texture holds up well to heavy fillings, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
For breakfast, try spreading butter and jam on a warm slice of stottie cake. At lunch, use it to make a classic bacon sandwich or pair it with soup for a comforting meal. You can even serve it as a side with stews or casseroles. The possibilities are endless!
If you’re hosting a gathering, cut the stottie cake into smaller pieces and serve it with dips or spreads. Its chewy texture and thick crust make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Storing Your Stottie Cake
To keep your stottie cake recipe bread machine fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.
To freeze, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes.
Proper storage ensures your stottie cake stays delicious and ready to enjoy whenever you need it. Whether you’re serving it fresh or reheating it later, this bread is sure to be a hit!
Variations of Stottie Cake
Sweet Stottie Cake Variations
While the traditional stottie cake recipe bread machine is savory, you can easily turn it into a sweet treat with a few simple tweaks. For a sweeter version, add a tablespoon of sugar or honey to the dough. You can also mix in dried fruits like raisins, currants, or chopped apricots for a fruity twist.
Once baked, serve your sweet stottie cake with butter and a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack with tea. This variation is a fun way to enjoy stottie cake in a whole new way!
Savory Stottie Cake Variations
If you love savory flavors, there are plenty of ways to customize your stottie cake recipe bread machine. Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for a fragrant loaf. You can also mix in grated cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, for a rich, cheesy flavor.
For an extra kick, try adding chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a pinch of chili flakes. These savory variations pair wonderfully with soups, stews, or as a base for sandwiches. The dense texture of stottie cake makes it ideal for holding bold, flavorful ingredients.
Experimenting with different flavors is a great way to make this classic bread your own. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, there’s a stottie cake variation for everyone!
FAQs :
1. Why is Stottie cake so called?
The name “Stottie” originates from the North East of England, where the word “stot” means “to bounce.” This refers to the traditional method of testing the dough by bouncing it on a surface to check its elasticity. If the dough was firm enough to “stot” or bounce, it was ready to bake. The name reflects this unique regional baking tradition.
2. What to do with a stottie?
A stottie is a versatile bread that can be used in many ways. It is commonly sliced in half and filled with hearty ingredients like ham and pease pudding, bacon, sausage, or eggs to make a filling sandwich. It can also be enjoyed simply with butter or used to accompany soups, stews, or casseroles, as its dense texture is perfect for soaking up sauces.
3. Can you freeze stottie cakes?
Yes, stottie cakes freeze very well. To keep them fresh, wrap them tightly in cling film or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight freezer bag. When you’re ready to use them, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a freshly baked feel.
4. What makes bread bread and cake cake?
The key difference between bread and cake lies in their ingredients and how they are leavened. Bread is typically made with yeast, which causes it to rise slowly and gives it a chewy, dense texture. It also has less sugar and fat. Cake, on the other hand, uses baking powder or baking soda for leavening, which creates a lighter, fluffier texture. Cakes are also sweeter and richer due to higher amounts of sugar, butter, and eggs.
5. Why is it called miserable cake?
Miserable cake, or “misérable cake,” is a Belgian dessert made with almond sponge and a rich buttercream filling. The name likely comes from its plain and simple appearance, which contrasts with its luxurious taste. Despite its unassuming look, the cake is anything but “miserable” when it comes to flavor.
6. What is a Mary Jane cake?
A Mary Jane cake is a type of edible dessert that contains cannabis as an ingredient. The name “Mary Jane” is a well-known slang term for marijuana. These cakes are popular in cannabis culture and are often made by infusing butter or oil with cannabis before incorporating it into the cake batter.
Conclusion:
Why Stottie Cake is a Must-Try Recipe
The stottie cake recipe bread machine is more than just a way to bake bread—it’s a celebration of British heritage. This iconic bread from North East England carries a rich cultural significance, symbolizing the resourcefulness and traditions of the region. Its dense, chewy texture and thick crust make it a standout among other breads, perfect for hearty fillings like ham and pease pudding or even simple spreads like butter and jam.
What makes stottie cake truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it as part of a meal, enjoying it as a snack, or using it as a base for creative sandwiches, it’s a bread that fits any occasion. Plus, with the convenience of a bread machine, you can easily recreate this classic in your own kitchen, no matter where you live.
Encouragement to Experiment
One of the best things about the stottie cake recipe bread machine is how adaptable it is. While the traditional recipe is a timeless favorite, don’t be afraid to experiment! Add herbs, cheese, or dried fruits to create your own unique twist. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, stottie cake can be customized to suit your tastes.
So, roll up your sleeves, fire up your bread machine, and start baking. With its rich history, delicious flavor, and endless possibilities, stottie cake is a must-try recipe for any home baker. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy the bread!