Welsh Cakes, also known as "picau ar y maen" in Welsh, are traditional griddle cakes originating from Wales. They are sweet, scone-like treats made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and dried fruit, often currants or raisins. These delightful cakes are cooked on a griddle or a non-stick pan, giving them a slightly crispy exterior while remaining soft and tender inside.

Welsh Cakes have a rich history dating back centuries in Wales. They were originally made as a portable and hearty snack for Welsh miners and farmers to enjoy during their long workdays. Over time, Welsh Cakes became a beloved treat enjoyed by people of all ages throughout Wales and beyond. They are often served on special occasions such as St. David's Day, a significant celebration in Welsh culture honoring the patron saint of Wales. The popularity of Welsh Cakes has spread beyond Wales, becoming a cherished part of British and international baking traditions.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/3 cup sugar

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

- 1/3 cup currants or raisins

- 1 large egg

- Milk (as needed)

Method:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Stir in the currants or raisins.

4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then add it to the flour mixture. Mix until the dough starts to come together. Add milk, a little at a time, if needed to form a soft dough.

5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it until smooth.

6. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut out rounds using a cookie cutter or a glass.

7. Heat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the Welsh cakes for about 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.

8. Remove from the griddle and cool on a wire rack.

9. Serve the Welsh cakes warm or at room temperature, sprinkled with sugar if desired.

Nutrition Value:

1. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 800 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 168 grams

  - Protein: Around 22 grams

  - Fat: Nearly 2 grams

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamins B and E, iron, and magnesium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy from carbohydrates and some protein, along with a small amount of essential vitamins and minerals.

2. Sugar (1/3 cup):

  - Calories: About 240 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 64 grams

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None significant

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds sweetness and flavor to the Welsh Cakes but provides primarily empty calories.

3. Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Minimal

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: Contains sodium for leavening purposes but in very small amounts per serving.

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None

  - Nutritional Benefit: Helps the Welsh Cakes rise and become fluffy.

4. Salt (1/4 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Minimal

  - Protein: None

  - Fat: None

  - Sodium: Adds flavor and may contribute a small amount of sodium per serving.

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None significant

  - Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor but consumed in small amounts due to sodium content.

5. Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 800 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Minimal

  - Protein: Around 1 gram

  - Fat: About 88 grams

  - Sodium: Minimal (if unsalted)

  - Cholesterol: Around 240 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamins A, D, E, and K, along with small amounts of calcium and magnesium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds richness and flavor to the Welsh Cakes, providing fat-soluble vitamins and essential fatty acids.

6. Currants or Raisins (1/3 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 120 kcal (for currants)

  - Carbohydrates: Around 32 grams (for currants)

  - Protein: About 1 gram (for currants)

  - Fat: Minimal

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamins C, K, and B-complex, as well as iron and potassium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds natural sweetness, texture, and some vitamins and minerals to the Welsh Cakes.

7. Large Egg (1):

  - Calories: Around 70 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: Approximately 6 grams

  - Fat: About 5 grams

  - Sodium: Around 70 mg

  - Cholesterol: Around 185 mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamins A, D, E, and B-complex, as well as minerals like iron and phosphorus.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds structure, moisture, and protein to the Welsh Cakes, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

8. Milk (as needed):

  - Calories: Varies depending on the amount used

  - Carbohydrates: Varies

  - Protein: Varies

  - Fat: Varies

  - Sodium: Varies

  - Cholesterol: Varies

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamins A, D, B-complex, and calcium, depending on the type of milk.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds moisture and richness to the dough, along with additional vitamins and minerals depending on the milk used.