Stottie cake

Stottie Cake Using a Bread Machine: The Ultimate Guide

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Introduction

Stottie cake using a bread machine, a traditional bread from the Northeast of England, is known for its soft yet dense texture, making it perfect for sandwiches or hearty meals. Despite its name, it’s not a cake but a unique type of flatbread that’s baked at a lower temperature to achieve its signature crust and chewiness.

Making a Stottie cake can be time-consuming, but with a bread machine, the process becomes incredibly simple. The machine handles the mixing, kneading, and rising, letting you focus on perfecting the shape and final bake. Whether you’re a fan of classic British baking or looking for a rustic bread to try, this recipe is for you.

This guide will walk you through an easy, foolproof bread machine recipe for Stottie cake. Along the way, you’ll discover tips to get the texture just right and ways to serve it traditionally or with modern twists. Let’s get started!

Ingredients and Substitutes

Making Stottie cake requires just a few simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have at home. This recipe sticks to tradition but also offers substitutes for dietary needs or preferences.

Key Ingredients

  1. All-Purpose Flour
    • This is the primary ingredient for the bread’s soft, dense texture. Use unbleached flour for the best results.
    • Substitute: For a heartier texture, replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.
  2. Water
    • Warm water activates the yeast and binds the dough. Aim for a temperature between 105°F and 115°F.
  3. Dry Yeast
    • Yeast is essential for the bread to rise. Use active dry yeast or bread machine yeast for the best results.
    • Substitute: Instant yeast can also work but may rise faster, so monitor closely.
  4. Salt
    • Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough structure.
  5. Sugar
    • A small amount of sugar feeds the yeast, ensuring a good rise.
    • Substitute: Honey or maple syrup can be used in equal amounts for a natural sweetener.
  6. Butter or Lard
    • Adds richness and keeps the bread moist.
    • Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan butter or margarine for a dairy-free alternative.

Optional Additions

  1. Milk Powder
    • Adds a subtle creaminess to the dough. Replace some of the water with milk for a similar effect.
  2. Seeds or Herbs
    • Mix in sesame seeds, flaxseeds, or herbs like rosemary for added flavor and texture.

Proportions for Bread Machine

Here’s a quick guide to ingredient amounts for a standard 1.5-2 lb loaf:

  • 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 ¼ cups of warm water
  • 1 ½ teaspoons of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of butter or lard
  • 2 teaspoons of dry yeast

Ingredient Tips

  1. Measure Carefully
    • Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour.
  2. Room Temperature Butter
    • Ensure butter is softened or cut into small pieces for even mixing.
  3. Layer Ingredients Correctly
    • In bread machines, always add liquids first, followed by dry ingredients, with yeast on top.

These ingredients and tips will set you up for a perfect Stottie cake every time.

Equipment Needed

Using a bread machine simplifies the process of making Stottie cake, but a few additional tools will help you achieve the best results. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools

  1. Bread Machine
    • A bread machine with basic settings for dough preparation (mixing, kneading, and rising) is perfect for this recipe.
    • Recommended Setting: Use the “Dough” setting, which handles everything except baking.
  2. Rolling Pin
    • A rolling pin helps flatten the dough to the traditional Stottie shape. A sturdy wooden or silicone rolling pin works well.
  3. Baking Sheet
    • A flat baking sheet is needed to bake the Stottie cake in its signature round, flat form.
  4. Parchment Paper
    • Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  5. Kitchen Scale
    • For measuring ingredients accurately, especially flour. Consistency is key in bread-making.
  6. Sharp Knife or Dough Cutter
    • Used for scoring the top of the dough to create the traditional Stottie markings.
  7. Clean Kitchen Towel
    • For covering the dough during the final resting period before baking.

Optional Tools

  1. Thermometer
    • A thermometer ensures water temperature is ideal for yeast activation (105°F-115°F).
  2. Cooling Rack
    • Cooling the baked Stottie on a wire rack prevents it from becoming soggy on the bottom.

Tips for Using a Bread Machine

  1. Layer Ingredients Properly
    • Add liquids first, then dry ingredients, and place yeast on top (away from the salt). This ensures even mixing.
  2. Check the Dough Consistency
    • After the machine starts mixing, check the dough within the first 5-10 minutes. It should form a smooth ball. If too dry, add water 1 teaspoon at a time; if too wet, add flour gradually.
  3. Remove Dough Promptly
    • Once the “Dough” cycle is complete, remove the dough immediately to avoid over-proofing.

With these tools and tips, you’ll be ready to prepare your Stottie cake with ease.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Stottie cake in a bread machine is simple and efficient. Follow these steps to prepare and bake this classic bread.

1 – Prepare the Dough

  1. Layer Ingredients in the Bread Machine
    • Add the ingredients in the following order:
      • Warm water (1 ¼ cups)
      • Butter or lard (2 tablespoons, softened)
      • Sugar (1 tablespoon)
      • Salt (1 ½ teaspoons)
      • All-purpose flour (3 ½ cups)
      • Dry yeast (2 teaspoons)
    • Ensure the yeast is placed on top, away from the salt.
  2. Select the “Dough” Setting
    • Start the machine and let it handle the mixing, kneading, and first rise. This usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your machine.
  3. Check Dough Consistency
    • After 5-10 minutes of mixing, open the machine and check the dough.
      • If too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.
      • If too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.

2 – Shape the Dough

  1. Turn Out the Dough
    • Once the “Dough” cycle is complete, remove the dough from the machine and place it on a lightly floured surface.
  2. Flatten and Shape
    • Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough into a circle, about 1 inch thick and 10-12 inches in diameter.
  3. Transfer to a Baking Sheet
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the flattened dough on it.
  4. Score the Dough
    • Use a sharp knife or dough cutter to lightly score the top of the dough with a cross or diagonal lines, a traditional marking for Stottie cakes.
  5. Final Rest
    • Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

3 – Bake the Stottie Cake

  1. Preheat the Oven
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake
    • Place the baking sheet in the center of the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  3. Cool the Bread
    • Remove the Stottie cake from the oven and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Let it cool completely before slicing.

Serving Tips

  1. Slice into Wedges or Halves
    • Traditionally, Stottie cake is cut into halves or wedges for sandwiches or hearty meals.
  2. Pair with Fillings
    • Serve with classic fillings like ham and pease pudding or modern options like grilled vegetables and hummus.

These simple steps make it easy to create authentic Stottie cake using your bread machine.

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect Stottie cake, follow these practical tips. These will help ensure your bread has the right texture, flavor, and appearance.

Mastering the Texture

  1. Check Dough Consistency Early
    • Always check the dough within the first 10 minutes of the bread machine’s kneading cycle. The dough should form a soft, slightly tacky ball.
    • Adjust by adding small amounts of flour or water as needed.
  2. Don’t Overproof the Dough
    • Overproofing can make the bread overly airy, which isn’t ideal for Stottie cake. Remove the dough promptly when the machine finishes the “Dough” cycle.
  3. Flatten Dough Evenly
    • Use a rolling pin to create a uniform 1-inch thickness. This ensures even baking and the dense texture characteristic of Stottie cake.

Baking for the Best Results

  1. Score the Top Properly
    • Lightly score the top with a knife before baking. This allows steam to escape and gives the bread its traditional markings.
  2. Use the Right Oven Temperature
    • Bake at 375°F (190°C) to prevent the crust from becoming too hard.
  3. Tap-Test for Doneness
    • Gently tap the bottom of the bread; a hollow sound indicates it’s fully baked.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

  1. Sticky Dough Troubles
    • If the dough feels too sticky to handle, dust your hands and rolling pin with flour. Avoid adding too much flour to the dough itself, as this can make it dry.
  2. Underbaking
    • Always bake until the crust is golden brown and firm. Underbaking can leave the inside too doughy.
  3. Skipping the Rest Period
    • Allow the dough to rest for at least 15 minutes after shaping. This helps it hold its shape during baking.

Enhancing Flavor

  1. Experiment with Add-Ins
    • Mix in dried herbs, minced garlic, or cheese to give your Stottie cake a unique flavor.
  2. Brush the Top
    • Before baking, brush the dough with melted butter or milk for a golden, shiny crust.

Serving Fresh Stottie Cake

  1. Best Served Warm
    • Stottie cake tastes best when served slightly warm, either fresh out of the oven or reheated briefly.
  2. Classic Fillings
    • Traditional pairings like ham and pease pudding complement the bread’s dense, chewy texture.

With these tips, you’ll create a Stottie cake that’s both authentic and delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Stottie cake is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in both traditional and modern ways. Here are some serving ideas and creative twists to inspire your next bake.

Traditional Ways to Serve Stottie Cake

  1. Ham and Pease Pudding
    • This classic North East England pairing combines the hearty texture of Stottie cake with the creamy, savory flavor of pease pudding and salty ham.
    • Tip: Warm the bread slightly before assembling for the best flavor.
  2. Breakfast Sandwich
    • Fill with crispy bacon, fried egg, and sausage for a hearty breakfast treat.
  3. Cheese and Pickle
    • Spread with your favorite cheese and tangy pickle for a simple, satisfying snack.

Modern Serving Ideas

  1. Grilled Vegetable Sandwich
    • Use roasted peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with hummus for a healthy, vegetarian option.
  2. Pulled Pork Slider
    • Slice the Stottie into smaller pieces and fill with pulled pork, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce for a modern twist.
  3. Pizza-Style Stottie
    • Spread tomato sauce, mozzarella, and your favorite toppings on the Stottie, then bake for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts.

Creative Variations

  1. Herb-Infused Dough
    • Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to the dough for extra flavor.
  2. Cheese-Stuffed Stottie
    • Before baking, fold grated cheese into the dough for a gooey surprise when sliced.
  3. Sweet Stottie Cake
    • Incorporate a tablespoon of sugar and dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the dough for a sweet variation.

Stottie Cake for Special Occasions

  1. Party Platter
    • Serve mini Stottie cakes with a variety of fillings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
  2. Festive Theme
    • Use cookie cutters to shape the dough into fun designs for holidays or celebrations.

Pairing Stottie Cake with Drinks

  1. Tea or Coffee
    • Serve warm Stottie slices with butter alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee.
  2. Soups and Stews
    • Pair with hearty soups like leek and potato or beef stew for a comforting meal.

With these serving ideas and variations, you can enjoy Stottie cake in countless ways, from classic to contemporary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to common questions about making and serving Stottie cake using a bread machine.

What makes Stottie cake different from other breads?

Stottie cake is a flat, round bread with a soft but dense texture. It’s baked at a lower temperature, giving it a unique crust and chewiness. Unlike most breads, it’s traditionally shaped by flattening the dough before baking.

Can I make Stottie cake without a bread machine?

Yes, you can! If you don’t have a bread machine, mix and knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, then follow the same shaping and baking instructions.

Why didn’t my Stottie cake rise properly?

Common reasons include:

  • Inactive yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and hasn’t expired.
  • Water temperature: Water that’s too hot or too cold can affect yeast activation. Use water between 105°F and 115°F.
  • Overproofing or underproofing: Follow the recommended rise times closely to avoid these issues.

How do I store Stottie cake?

Store Stottie cake in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat if desired.

Can I make gluten-free Stottie cake?

Yes, but you’ll need a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for bread-making. Add xanthan gum if the blend doesn’t include it, as it helps mimic the elasticity of gluten. Expect a slightly different texture but still a tasty result.

What’s the best way to reheat Stottie cake?

To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. This method keeps it moist while warming it through.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier flavor. Start by replacing 1 cup and adjust based on your preference. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may make the bread slightly denser.

Why is my Stottie cake too dry?

Dry Stottie cake can be caused by overbaking or using too much flour. Check the dough consistency during mixing—it should be soft and slightly tacky. Bake only until the crust is golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

These FAQs cover everything you need to know to troubleshoot and perfect your Stottie cake.

Conclusion

Making Stottie cake at home is easier than ever with the help of a bread machine. This traditional bread, loved for its soft and dense texture, is perfect for sandwiches, soups, and creative dishes. With simple ingredients, clear instructions, and tips for success, you can enjoy authentic Stottie cake in no time.

Whether you’re sticking to traditional fillings like ham and pease pudding or experimenting with modern twists, this versatile bread is sure to become a favorite. Plus, it’s easy to store and reheat, making it ideal for meal prep or special occasions.

So, get your bread machine ready and give this recipe a try. You’ll love how simple and rewarding it is to make your own Stottie cake at home. Happy baking!