The Wholesome Parkin, a rustic and hearty cake, invites us to explore the comforting flavors of simplicity and tradition. This cake embodies the essence of humble ingredients woven into a tapestry of flavor and warmth. The history of The Wholesome Parkin is a journey into the past, where nourishing and satisfying desserts were crafted with care in kitchens that embraced the spirit of resourcefulness.
The origins of Parkin can be traced back to northern England, particularly Yorkshire, where it is a cherished traditional treat. Historically, Parkin was made during the autumn months, often around Guy Fawkes Night (November 5th), a British holiday commemorating the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605. The cake’s flavors of ginger, oatmeal, and molasses are perfect for warming chilly evenings and gathering around bonfires.
The term “Parkin” is believed to be derived from the Old English word “perched,” which meant to pert or thrive. Parkin was seen as a nourishing and wholesome cake, made with ingredients commonly found in the household pantry. Its simplicity and heartiness made it a comforting treat during the colder months.
The recipe provided captures the spirit of traditional Parkin—a cake that brings together molasses, spices, and oatmeal to create a flavorful delight. The use of Crisco in the recipe reflects an era when this ingredient was commonly used in baking, offering a hint of the past in each bite.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cupful flour
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cupful melted Crisco (shortening)
- 2 cupfuls fine oatmeal
- 3/4 cupful molasses
- 3 tablespoonfuls sugar
- 1/4 teaspoonful salt
- 1 teaspoonful powdered ginger
- 1/4 teaspoonful powdered allspice
- 1/2 teaspoonful powdered cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoonful baking soda
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature.
- Grease a small square tin with Crisco.
- In a mixing bowl, melt the Crisco and mix it with the molasses until well combined.
- Add the sugar and the well-beaten egg to the molasses mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the salt, baking soda, powdered ginger, powdered allspice, and powdered cinnamon.
- Gradually add the flour and fine oatmeal to the bowl, mixing well to create a smooth batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared Criscoed tin, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for approximately thirty-five minutes or until the cake is firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin.
NOTE:
- This recipe yields a small Wholesome Parkin—a testament to the history of simple yet satisfying baking. The blend of spices, oatmeal, and molasses creates a cake that embodies the spirit of autumn and gatherings around the hearth. The Wholesome Parkin celebrates a time when comfort and flavor were skillfully combined to create nourishing and enduring treats.