Cornish Splits: A Delicious and Traditional Recipe

Introduction

If you’re a fan of baked goods and are looking for a new recipe to try, look no further than Cornish Splits. These delightful treats are a traditional Cornish recipe that will transport you to the picturesque countryside of England. Cornish Splits are light, fluffy, and slightly sweet, making them perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or as a base for a tasty sandwich. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making these delectable treats, from gathering the ingredients to the final step of baking.

Ingredients

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make Cornish Splits:

For the Splits:

• 500g strong white bread flour
• 7g fast-action dried yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 50g caster sugar
• 40g unsalted butter, softened
• 300ml warm milk

For the Filling:

• Clotted cream
• Strawberry jam

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and softened butter. Gradually add the warm milk, stirring with a wooden spoon to form a soft dough. Once the dough starts to come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process helps develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a lighter and chewier texture. You can use your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and leave it in a warm place to rise for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. A warm kitchen or airing cupboard is ideal for this stage.

Step 4: Shape the Splits

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly to form a disc shape.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place the shaped splits onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes to an hour, or until they have doubled in size once again.

Step 6: Bake the Splits

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Once the splits have finished their second rise, bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Variations

While the traditional Cornish Splits recipe is delightful on its own, you can also experiment with different flavors and fillings to suit your taste. Here are a few variations you can try:

Cheese and Chive Splits:

Add grated cheddar cheese and chopped fresh chives to the dough before shaping the splits. Serve them warm with butter.

Cinnamon and Raisin Splits:

Mix ground cinnamon and raisins into the dough before shaping. These sweet and aromatic splits are perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Chocolate Chip Splits:

Add chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful twist. These are especially loved by little ones and those with a sweet tooth.

Tips

To ensure your Cornish Splits turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

1. Make sure the yeast is fresh and within its expiration date for optimal rise.
2. When kneading the dough, be patient and avoid adding too much flour. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
3. For a professional touch, brush the tops of the splits with milk or beaten egg before baking. This will give them a lovely golden color.
4. Store any leftover splits in an airtight container for up to two days. To refresh them, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Conclusion

Cornish Splits are a delightful treat that will transport you to the beautiful countryside of Cornwall. With their light and fluffy texture, they are perfect for enjoying with clotted cream and strawberry jam. Whether you choose to stick with the classic recipe or try out some variations, Cornish Splits are sure to impress your family and friends. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and get ready to bake up some deliciousness!

FAQs

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?

A: Yes, you can substitute a portion of the white flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, keep in mind that the texture may be slightly denser.

Q: Can I freeze the Cornish Splits?

A: Yes, you can freeze the splits after they have cooled completely. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container, and they will keep well for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?

A: Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the dough setting, and then proceed with the recipe as instructed.

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?

A: While butter provides a richer flavor, you can use margarine as a substitute if desired. Just make sure it’s softened before adding it to the dough.

Now that you have all the information you need to make Cornish Splits, it’s time to get baking! Enjoy these delicious treats and share them with your loved ones for a taste of Cornwall in your own home.