The Savory Twist: From Sweet to Salty

Traditionally, Welsh cakes are sweet, with ingredients like sugar, dried fruit, and spices such as cinnamon. They are often served as a treat for afternoon tea or as a snack. However, these Green Olive and Herb Welsh Cakes transform the classic recipe into something savory and indulgent. By replacing the sweet components with ingredients like green olives, capers, and fresh herbs, the cakes gain a depth of flavor that is both sophisticated and comforting. The green olives provide a briny, slightly bitter flavor that pairs perfectly with the herbs, while the capers add a tangy punch, elevating the overall taste profile.

The use of cheddar cheese or vegan cheese (depending on dietary preferences) introduces an extra layer of richness and a slight sharpness, which complements the other savory ingredients. The inclusion of garlic butter custard as a finishing touch is a stroke of genius, adding another layer of creamy flavor while enriching the texture of the cakes. This savory twist on the classic Welsh cake is ideal for those who prefer a more savory, umami-forward dish over something sweet.

Ingredients: A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The ingredients used in Green Olive and Herb Welsh Cakes come together beautifully to create a balanced and flavorful dish. The base of the dough consists of flour, butter, and baking soda, which provides the structure for the cakes. The butter is rubbed into the flour to create a breadcrumb-like texture, which, when cooked, gives the cakes their light, crumbly texture. The dough is then enriched with green olives, capers, fresh dill, parsley, and cheese, each ingredient adding its own distinctive flavor to the mix.

The use of leeks or spring onions cooked with a pinch of salt adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dough, while the combination of herbs brightens up the overall flavor. The capers bring a touch of brininess, and the olives provide both salt and a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the butter and cheese. These ingredients come together to create a flavor-packed dough that is both savory and satisfying.

Creating the Perfect Dough

The process of making the dough for these savory Welsh cakes is quite straightforward. The key to achieving the right texture is to gently rub the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs. This technique helps to create a light and flaky dough, which, when cooked, results in cakes that are tender on the inside with a crisp exterior.

The addition of leeks (or spring onions) to the flour mixture provides an aromatic, savory base that enhances the dough’s flavor. The combination of fresh herbs—dill and parsley—further elevates the taste, adding a layer of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheese and butter. Once the dough is formed, it should be rolled out to an even thickness and cut into rounds. Alternatively, the dough can be divided into small portions and pressed down to form smaller cakes, offering flexibility in size and shape. The cakes should be evenly cooked to ensure they are golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through.

The Garlic Butter Custard: A Flavorful Coating

The addition of garlic butter custard to the Green Olive and Herb Welsh Cakes is what truly sets them apart from traditional Welsh cakes. The garlic butter custard is made by combining melted butter, egg, milk, sweetened condensed milk, and minced garlic, creating a rich and flavorful sauce. The custard is infused with garlic, parsley, and paprika, which adds a touch of smokiness and depth to the dish.

Once the cakes are cooked, they are coated in the garlic butter custard, which helps to enrich the flavor and texture of the cakes. The custard adds a creamy richness and a subtle garlic flavor that complements the savory ingredients in the cakes. Drizzling the cakes with this custard ensures that they stay moist and flavorful, while also giving them a beautiful golden color when baked.

Cooking Method: Golden Brown Perfection

To achieve the perfect texture, these Green Olive and Herb Welsh Cakes are cooked on a medium-low heat in a frying pan. The low heat ensures that the cakes cook evenly, becoming golden brown on both sides without burning. Cooking the cakes in batches allows for better control over the temperature, ensuring each cake gets the attention it deserves. As the cakes cook, they develop a crispy exterior, while the inside remains soft and tender, creating the perfect contrast in texture.

The garlic butter custard coating is added after the cakes are cooked, allowing the custard to soak into the cakes and infuse them with flavor. Once coated, the cakes can be served immediately while still warm, with the custard providing a rich, savory finish.

Serving Suggestions

Green Olive and Herb Welsh Cakes are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. They are perfect as a savory appetizer or snack and can be paired with a variety of accompaniments. For a complete meal, these cakes pair beautifully with a fresh salad, chutney, or a light dip. The briny olives and capers, along with the creamy custard, make them a perfect complement to a tangy chutney, which adds another layer of flavor and balance.

If you want to serve them as part of a larger spread, these Welsh cakes also work well with other Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a platter of cheeses and olives. Their savory and cheesy nature makes them a great addition to a mezze platter, where they can be enjoyed alongside other dips, flatbreads, and finger foods.

Customizing the Recipe

While the recipe is delicious as-is, there are several ways to customize the cakes based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. For those who prefer a dairy-free version, simply swap out the butter and cheese for plant-based alternatives such as olive oil and vegan cheese. For a gluten-free version, gluten-free flour can be used in place of regular flour, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delicious cakes.

To adjust the flavor profile, you can experiment with different herbs, such as basil or oregano, or even add a bit of lemon zest for a citrusy twist. For a spicier version, consider adding some chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili to the dough, which will add a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the rich, savory flavors.

Conclusion

Green Olive and Herb Welsh Cakes offer a savory and satisfying twist on the traditional Welsh cake, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of green olives, capers, fresh herbs, and cheese creates a flavor-packed filling, while the garlic butter custard coating elevates the dish to new heights. These cakes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with savory goodness, making them a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and rich flavors make them a must-try for anyone looking to experiment with new savory dishes. Whether served as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal or enjoyed on their own, these Welsh cakes are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.