Rock buns – Caribbean style
Rock buns are a sweet treat, beloved for their crumbly texture and rich flavor. Like British scones, this baked good is made with simple ingredients and often incorporates, raisins, candied mixed peel, and even mixed spices.
This dessert is a favorite in many Caribbean households and is enjoyed both locally and around the world. Like coconut drops, it’s easy to see why it is a favorite, as the recipe is easy to follow and requires no fuss. In fact, the dough can be made in just one bowl with no tools required.
Whether you’re looking for a new treat to try or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, give this recipe for rock buns (also known as rock cakes) a try. Their unique combination of ingredients and buttery texture is sure to please.
Want a tropical twist? You can also make a Caribbean coconut buns recipe variation by adding shredded coconut to the dough. It gives the buns a slightly chewy texture and boosts that island flavor we love.
What are rock buns
These are some little snack cakes that are usually round in the shape of a rock. The texture is very similar to that of scones.
Don’t let the recipe’s name make you think these will be tough to eat. Actually, the name is more to do with how they look. This is because they have a pebbly-looking surface. They also last quite a while once stored properly, so are perfect for batch cooking.
So if you like the sound of these rock buns, then here is everything you need to know to make them at home.
Overall, the appeal of rock cake lies in its simplicity in both preparation and ingredients involved. They make for a perfect addition to any tea party and a great snack on the go.
How to make Trinidad rock buns
Ingredients
First of all, it is a good idea to ensure that you can get all of the ingredients together. Focusing on this first means that the cooking process will be simple. You will need:
- All-purpose flour – the base of the dough.
- Brown sugar – adds sweetness and a touch of depth.
- Baking powder – to help the buns rise and puff.
- Margarine or butter – keeps things tender. Margarine is traditional, but butter works too.
- Salt – just a pinch to balance the flavors.
- Milk + egg – helps bind the dough and adds moisture.
- Raisins and/or mixed peel – for that fruity bite (you can use one or both).
- Allspice – adds a hint of spice.
- Maraschino cherries (optional) – if you want to add that classic cherry on top.
Instructions
Rock buns, also known as rock cakes, are a delightful and easy-to-make sweet treat that is perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients, you can easily whip up a batch of these crumbly and delicious buns in no time. Follow these step-by-step instructions to recreate this classic recipe for rock buns.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare your baking tray or cookie sheet with some parchment paper or grease it so that the rock buns don’t stick when baking.
2. Using the rub-in method, rub the butter into the flour until you have clumps. It will look like crumbles when properly combined.
3. Once those two ingredients have combined, add in the remaining dry ingredients: your baking powder, spices, and sugar, and combine.
4. In a small bowl, add the egg and milk and beat slightly. Then add the egg mixture to the flour mixture.
5. As the mixture starts to come together, add in your raisins and/or mixed peel.
6. Mix until you get a dough ball with all the mixture combined until you get a nice smooth ball. It will be a stiff dough.
7. Scoop out a spoonful of the mixture and shape them into molds of dough. Place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving enough space between them for expansion. If you want to use cherries in the middle, you would insert half of a maraschino cherry on the top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown in color. Check if they’re cooked by inserting a toothpick in the center – if it comes out clean, they’re done.
9. Remove the rock buns from the oven and place them on a wire rack to cool down.
Recipe notes and tips
- Cut the margarine into cubes first—it makes the rub-in process easier.
- To keep the butter cool, use only your fingertips and lift the mixture as you rub.
- Shake the bowl occasionally to bring larger clumps to the surface for rubbing in.
- If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized buns, or shape them by hand for a more rustic look.
- A heavy layer of butter (from a stick or tub) works better than spray when greasing the tray.
Variations to try
Like with many recipes, once you’ve made these a few times, you can start switching things up to suit your taste. Here are a few easy ways to customize your rock buns:
- Add grated coconut to turn this into a Caribbean coconut buns recipe. It adds a chewy texture and a light tropical flavor.
- Swap or combine other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or even chopped dried bananas.
- Use chocolate chips instead of raisins for a fun twist.
Final Thoughts
Rock buns are the kind of treat that’s both nostalgic and timeless. With their crumbly edges, soft centers, and simple ingredients, they’re perfect for casual snacking or sharing with friends over tea.
Whether you keep them classic or add your own twist, I hope this recipe brings a little Caribbean comfort into your kitchen. Happy baking!
More treats to try
- Jamaican gizzada
- Trinidad coconut tart
- Trinidad coconut sweet bread
- Marble sponge cake
- Jamaican bread pudding
Frequently Asked Questions
You can enjoy them just as they are, or slice them in half and spread with butter, jam, or clotted cream, just like scones.
Store cooled rock buns in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zipper-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a low oven or defrost overnight in the fridge.
Yes, simply swap the flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend. It’s an easy adaptation that still delivers great results.
Recipe
Caribbean Style Rock Buns
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking sheet and set aside.
- Rub margarine into flour: In a large bowl, add the cubed margarine to the flour. Use your fingertips to rub it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix dry ingredients: Stir in the sugar, baking powder, salt, and allspice.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the egg and milk.
- Form the dough: Pour the egg-milk mixture into the dry mixture and stir until mostly combined.
- Add raisins: Fold in the raisins and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Shape and bake: Drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each bun.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and let cool slightly before serving.
