Gluten-Free Welsh Cakes: A Cozy Taste of Wales

There’s something special about the simplicity of Welsh cakes. Cooked on a griddle instead of baked, they blur the line between cookie, scone, and pancake—and yet, they feel entirely their own. Soft, lightly spiced, and just sweet enough, these charming little cakes have long been a beloved teatime staple across Wales.

This gluten-free version captures all the nostalgic charm of the original, with a tender, buttery texture and a touch of allspice to warm things up. Whether you’re honoring heritage or simply craving a cozy treat, this recipe brings a little slice of Wales into your kitchen.

Gluten-Free Welsh Cakes

There's something special about the simplicity of Welsh cakes. Cooked on a griddle instead of baked, they blur the line between cookie, scone, and pancake—and yet, they feel entirely their own. Soft, lightly spiced, and just sweet enough, these charming little cakes have long been a beloved teatime staple across Wales.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course: Snack

Cuisine: British

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour blend I use Bob’s Red Mill 1:1
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup cold salted butter cut into small pieces
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup currants or sub with chopped dates or mini chocolate chips for a non-traditional twist
• A splash of milk or water if needed
• Extra sugar for dusting

Method

 

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, allspice, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the cold butter and rub it into the dry ingredients with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
3. Stir in the currants, dates, or chocolate chips.
4. Gently bring the dough together using your hands, adding a small splash of milk or water only if the mixture is too crumbly to hold.
5. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Use a 2 1/2 inch round cutter to cut out the cakes.
7. Heat a griddle or heavy skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the cakes in batches for 2–3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
8. While still warm, dust with sugar and enjoy.

Serving Notes:

Welsh cakes are best enjoyed slightly warm, with a hot cup of tea. They’re perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up, a sweet breakfast bite, or a thoughtful addition to a brunch spread.

If you enjoyed this post, you might also enjoy learning more about Wales!

• Travel Diaries: Wales, Bath, and London
• From City Lights to Coastal Magic: A Curated UK Itinerary
• Luxury Countryside Escape in Wales: Why Pale Hall Hotel is Worth the Stay

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