If you love traditional British baking, stottie cake is a must-try bread that stands out for its unique texture and history. Originating from North East England, this soft, chewy flatbread has been a staple for generations. Traditionally, stottie cake was baked at the bottom of a coal oven, which gave it a distinctive texture—dense yet tender, with a slightly crisp crust.
While making stottie cake by hand is a time-honored tradition, using a bread machine offers a modern, convenient approach. A bread machine takes care of the kneading and rising process, ensuring consistent, high-quality results every time. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, using a bread maker simplifies the process without compromising the authentic taste and texture of this beloved bread.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- The history and origins of stottie cake.
- Why a bread machine is the perfect tool for making it.
- The essential ingredients and preparation process.
- A detailed bread machine recipe for perfect stottie cake.
- Serving suggestions, storage tips, and FAQs.
Table of Contents
History and Origin of Stottie Cake
Stottie cake is a traditional bread from North East England, particularly associated with cities like Newcastle, Sunderland, and Durham. The name “stottie” comes from the Geordie dialect and is derived from the word “stot,” which means “to bounce.” This refers to the unique baking technique where the dough was traditionally “stotted” (or bounced) onto the bottom of the oven before baking, resulting in its characteristic flat and dense texture.
Origins in Coal Mining Communities
Stottie cake was originally a working-class staple in the coal-mining and shipbuilding communities of North East England. Miners and laborers needed a filling, inexpensive, and durable bread that could be easily packed for long shifts. The dense, chewy texture made it perfect for holding hearty fillings like:
- Ham and pease pudding (a classic North East pairing).
- Bacon, sausage, and egg for a traditional breakfast.
- Cheese, cold cuts, or leftover roast meats for a satisfying lunch.
Traditional Baking Methods
Unlike lighter breads such as baps or sandwich loaves, stottie cakes were typically made from leftover dough after the main batch of bread had been baked. Bakers would quickly shape and bake the dough at the bottom of the oven, where the residual heat would cook it more slowly, leading to its signature texture—crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside.
Evolution and Modern Popularity
Over the years, stottie cake has remained a symbol of Northern English heritage, still widely available in local bakeries and supermarkets across the region. While the traditional method used coal-fired ovens, modern bakers now use electric or gas ovens—and even bread machines—to recreate this beloved flatbread.
Today, stottie cake is enjoyed not just in the UK, but by expats and baking enthusiasts worldwide, thanks to its simple ingredients and rustic charm. Whether served as a sandwich, toasted with butter, or paired with hearty fillings, it continues to be a delicious and nostalgic part of British baking history. 🥖
Benefits of Using a Bread Machine for Stottie Cake
Making stottie cake the traditional way requires kneading, proofing, and careful temperature control—a process that can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Using a bread machine simplifies the process while maintaining the authentic texture and taste of this North East England classic. Here’s why a bread machine is the perfect tool for making homemade stottie cake.
1. Convenience and Time-Saving ⏳
One of the biggest advantages of using a bread machine is the hands-free process. Instead of manually kneading the dough and monitoring the rising time, the machine does the work for you. Simply add the ingredients, select the dough setting, and let the machine handle the rest. This is perfect for:
- Busy home bakers.
- Beginners who struggle with kneading techniques.
- Those who want consistent, high-quality results every time.
2. Consistent Dough Quality 🍞
Proper kneading is crucial for developing the gluten structure that gives stottie cake its soft, chewy texture. A bread machine ensures even and thorough kneading, leading to:
- A perfectly elastic dough.
- Better yeast activation for a uniform rise.
- A smooth texture without dense lumps or under-kneaded spots.
3. Perfect Dough Proofing 🌡️
Proofing (allowing the dough to rise) is a critical step in bread-making. If the dough doesn’t rise properly, the stottie cake can become too dense or hard. A bread machine maintains the ideal temperature for proofing, ensuring the yeast ferments properly and creates a light, airy texture.
4. Less Mess and Easy Cleanup 🧼
Using a traditional method means handling flour, sticky dough, and multiple utensils. A bread machine keeps everything contained in a single non-stick pan, making cleanup quick and easy. No more floured countertops or sticky hands!
5. Beginner-Friendly with Foolproof Results 🎯
Traditional bread-making can be tricky, requiring experience to get the dough consistency and baking temperature just right. With a bread machine, you get:
- Pre-programmed settings that ensure each step is done correctly.
- Minimal risk of mistakes, such as under-kneading or over-proofing.
- Reliable results, even if you’re new to baking.
6. Customization and Variations 🥖
A bread machine allows you to experiment with variations of the classic stottie cake. You can easily adjust ingredients to create:
- Whole wheat stottie cake for a healthier option.
- Herb-infused stottie cake with garlic, rosemary, or thyme.
- Cheesy stottie cake by adding grated cheddar or parmesan.
Essential Ingredients for Bread Machine Stottie Cake
Making stottie cake in a bread machine requires just a few basic ingredients, all of which contribute to its distinctive soft, chewy texture. Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients and their roles in creating the perfect homemade stottie cake.
1. Strong White Bread Flour (500g / 4 cups) 🌾
Why it’s important:
- Provides high gluten content, giving the dough structure and chewiness.
- Creates a strong, elastic dough that can hold its shape.
- Helps achieve the signature dense yet soft texture of stottie cake.
Alternative options:
- Whole wheat flour (for a denser, more rustic version).
- A mix of bread flour and all-purpose flour (for a softer texture).
2. Water (300ml / 1 ¼ cups, lukewarm) 💧
Why it’s important:
- Activates the yeast, allowing the dough to rise properly.
- Keeps the bread soft and prevents dryness.
- Lukewarm temperature ensures even mixing and proofing.
Tip:
- Use filtered water if your tap water contains high chlorine levels, which can inhibit yeast activity.
3. Instant or Active Dry Yeast (7g / 2 tsp) 🍞
Why it’s important:
- Yeast is responsible for leavening the dough, creating air pockets that give the bread its light, soft texture.
- Instant yeast can be added directly to the flour, while active dry yeast should be dissolved in warm water before use.
Tip:
- Make sure your yeast is fresh and active—expired yeast will result in a dense, flat bread.
4. Salt (7g / 1 ½ tsp) 🧂
Why it’s important:
- Enhances the flavor of the bread.
- Controls yeast activity to prevent the dough from rising too quickly or unevenly.
- Strengthens gluten development for better dough structure.
Tip:
- Always add salt away from the yeast in the bread machine pan to avoid killing the yeast prematurely.
5. Butter or Lard (25g / 2 tbsp, softened) 🧈
Why it’s important:
- Adds richness and flavor to the bread.
- Helps keep the crumb soft and tender.
- Improves the texture, making the bread moist and slightly chewy.
Alternatives:
- Olive oil (for a lighter, dairy-free version).
- Vegetable shortening (for a more traditional texture).
6. Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor 🌿
These ingredients aren’t essential but can enhance the flavor and texture of your stottie cake:
- Sugar (1 tsp): Slightly sweetens the dough and helps feed the yeast.
- Milk (instead of water): Adds a richer flavor and softer texture.
- Herbs & spices: Garlic powder, black pepper, or rosemary for added taste.
Preparing Your Bread Machine for Stottie Cake
Before you start making your stottie cake, properly setting up your bread machine is essential for ensuring a smooth and successful baking process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your bread machine ready for this classic North East England flatbread.
1. Check Your Bread Machine Settings 🛠️
Not all bread machines have the same functions, so it’s important to choose the right setting for making stottie cake dough. Since stottie cake is traditionally baked in an oven, we will use the “Dough” setting on the bread machine.
🔹 Recommended settings:
- Dough Cycle (typically runs for 1.5 to 2 hours, including kneading and proofing).
- Basic Dough or Manual Mode (if your machine doesn’t have a dedicated dough setting).
🔹 Avoid using the full bread baking cycle, as stottie cake requires oven baking for its signature texture.
2. Gather and Prepare Ingredients 🥖
Having everything measured and ready before adding ingredients ensures consistent results.
✅ Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise ingredient portions.
✅ Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially yeast and flour, to get the best texture and rise.
✅ Let butter or lard soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
3. Add Ingredients in the Correct Order 🥄
The order in which ingredients are added matters, as it affects dough consistency and yeast activation. Most bread machines require:
1️⃣ Liquids first: Add lukewarm water or milk to the bread pan.
2️⃣ Dry ingredients next: Add flour, salt, and optional sugar on top of the liquid.
3️⃣ Butter or lard: Place small pieces around the edges for even distribution.
4️⃣ Yeast last: Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast, keeping it away from the salt to avoid deactivation.
4. Start the Dough Cycle ⏳
Once all ingredients are in, close the lid and start the Dough Cycle.
🔹 The bread machine will:
✔️ Knead the dough for about 20-30 minutes.
✔️ Let the dough rise in a warm, controlled environment for 45-60 minutes.
✔️ Ensure the dough develops proper elasticity and structure.
📌 Tip: If your machine allows, check the dough after the first 5-10 minutes. It should form a smooth, slightly tacky ball. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water; if too wet, add a bit more flour.
5. Remove the Dough for Shaping 🤲
Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough from the machine and place it on a lightly floured surface.
✔️ Gently press the dough to deflate any air bubbles.
✔️ Shape into a flat, round disc (about 1–1.5 inches thick).
✔️ Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before baking.
Step-by-Step Bread Machine Stottie Cake Recipe
Making stottie cake in a bread machine simplifies the process while maintaining the bread’s authentic soft, chewy texture. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a perfect homemade stottie cake with ease.
Ingredients 📝
For the Dough:
- 500g (4 cups) strong white bread flour
- 300ml (1 ¼ cups) lukewarm water
- 7g (2 tsp) instant yeast (or 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast, dissolved in water)
- 7g (1 ½ tsp) salt
- 25g (2 tbsp) butter or lard (softened)
- (Optional: 1 tsp sugar for a slightly softer texture)
For Dusting:
- Extra flour for shaping
- A little butter or oil for greasing
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Machine ⚙️
1️⃣ Ensure the bread machine pan is clean and properly inserted.
2️⃣ Select the “Dough” setting on your bread machine (this usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours).
Step 2: Add Ingredients in the Correct Order 🥄
🔹 Liquids First: Pour the lukewarm water into the bread pan.
🔹 Dry Ingredients Next: Add the flour, making sure it covers the liquid.
🔹 Salt & Butter: Place the salt and softened butter/lard around the edges.
🔹 Yeast Last: Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast, ensuring it doesn’t touch the salt.
Step 3: Start the Bread Machine ⏳
1️⃣ Close the lid and start the Dough cycle.
2️⃣ The machine will knead and proof the dough, usually taking 1.5 to 2 hours.
3️⃣ Check the dough after 5-10 minutes—it should form a smooth, slightly sticky ball.
- If too dry, add 1 tbsp water.
- If too wet, add 1 tbsp flour.
Step 4: Remove and Shape the Dough 🤲
1️⃣ Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough from the machine and place it on a lightly floured surface.
2️⃣ Press down gently to release any large air bubbles.
3️⃣ Shape it into a flat, round disc about 1–1.5 inches thick.
4️⃣ Place the dough on a floured baking sheet or greased tray.
Step 5: Rest the Dough Before Baking ⏸️
1️⃣ Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
2️⃣ Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 6: Bake the Stottie Cake 🔥
1️⃣ Before baking, poke the surface with a fork to prevent large air pockets.
2️⃣ Place the tray in the middle of the preheated oven.
3️⃣ Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until:
- The top is light golden brown.
- The bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
📌 Tip: For a more traditional texture, bake the stottie directly on a preheated pizza stone or place it on the lowest oven rack.
Step 7: Cool and Serve 🍞
1️⃣ Remove the stottie cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
2️⃣ Slice and serve warm with butter, cheese, ham, or pease pudding.
Enjoy Your Homemade Stottie Cake! 🎉
This bread machine version keeps the process easy while delivering authentic flavor and texture. Perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or enjoying fresh out of the oven! 🍞✨
Serving Suggestions for Stottie Cake 🍽️
Stottie cake is a versatile bread that pairs well with a variety of fillings and accompaniments. Whether you prefer a classic Northern English serving style or want to experiment with modern flavors, here are some delicious ways to enjoy your homemade stottie cake.
1. Traditional North East England Fillings 🇬🇧
Stottie cake has deep roots in North East England, where it is often served with hearty, comforting fillings:
🥓 Ham & Pease Pudding (Classic Combination)
🔹 Pease pudding (a smooth spread made from split peas) is a traditional pairing with ham.
🔹 Spread a generous layer of pease pudding on one half of the stottie, add slices of thick-cut ham, and close the sandwich.
🔹 Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature!
🍳 Bacon, Egg & Sausage Stottie (Full English Breakfast Style)
🔹 Load your stottie with:
✔ Crispy bacon
✔ A fried or scrambled egg
✔ Grilled sausage slices
🔹 Add a dash of brown sauce or ketchup for extra flavor.
🧀 Cheese & Pickle
🔹 Spread butter or cream cheese on one side.
🔹 Add slices of cheddar or Red Leicester cheese.
🔹 Top with Branston pickle or caramelized onions for a tangy-sweet contrast.
2. Modern & Creative Serving Ideas 🌟
🥩 Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Stottie
🔹 Fill your stottie with barbecue pulled pork and a coleslaw topping.
🔹 Serve warm for a soft, juicy bite.
🥗 Mediterranean-Style Stottie (Vegetarian Option)
🔹 Spread hummus or tzatziki on the bread.
🔹 Add grilled vegetables (zucchini, peppers, eggplant).
🔹 Top with feta cheese & fresh herbs.
🐟 Fish Finger Stottie (British Favorite)
🔹 Place crispy fish fingers inside the stottie.
🔹 Add tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice.
🔹 Great for a quick and satisfying meal!
3. Sweet Variations 🍯
Although stottie cake is not a sweet bread, it can be enjoyed with:
✔ Butter & honey 🍯
✔ Jam or marmalade 🍓
✔ Nutella & sliced bananas 🍌
4. Stottie Cake as a Side Dish 🍲
Stottie cake pairs well with:
✔ Soups & stews – Perfect for dipping into broth-based soups or thick stews.
✔ Cheese boards – Serve with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, and olives.
✔ Gravy or curry sauce – Ideal for soaking up rich sauces.
Storage and Shelf Life of Stottie Cake 🍞
Properly storing your homemade stottie cake ensures it stays fresh, soft, and delicious for as long as possible. While stottie cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can extend its shelf life with these storage tips.
1. How Long Does Stottie Cake Last? ⏳
- At room temperature: 1-2 days
- In the refrigerator: Up to 5 days
- In the freezer: Up to 3 months
🔹 Stottie cake has a soft, dense texture, which helps it stay fresh longer than some other breads. However, since it doesn’t contain preservatives, it should be stored properly to prevent drying out or going stale.
2. Storing Stottie Cake at Room Temperature 🏠
If you plan to eat the stottie cake within 1-2 days, store it at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
✅ Best method:
✔ Wrap in a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to maintain softness.
✔ Store in a bread box or airtight container.
✔ Keep away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture to prevent mold.
📌 Avoid: Storing in a plastic bag at room temperature—it can trap moisture and make the bread soggy or moldy faster.
3. Storing Stottie Cake in the Refrigerator ❄️
If you need to keep your stottie cake fresh for up to 5 days, refrigerate it properly:
✅ Best method:
✔ Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to lock in moisture.
✔ Place in an airtight container or resealable bag.
📌 Note: Refrigeration can cause bread to dry out faster, so reheat before serving to restore softness.
4. Freezing Stottie Cake for Long-Term Storage ❄️❄️
Freezing is the best way to preserve stottie cake for up to 3 months.
✅ Best method:
✔ Slice before freezing for easy portioning.
✔ Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap.
✔ Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
✔ Label with the freezing date for reference.
Thawing and Reheating:
🔹 At room temperature: Let it thaw for 1-2 hours.
🔹 In the oven: Wrap in foil and heat at 160°C (320°F) for 5-10 minutes.
🔹 In the toaster: For sliced stottie cake, toast lightly for a warm, crispy texture.
5. How to Tell If Stottie Cake Has Gone Bad 🚫
Check for these signs to determine if your stottie cake is no longer safe to eat:
🔹 Dry, hard texture – Stale but still edible (can be revived by toasting).
🔹 Mold spots – If you see any mold, discard the bread immediately.
🔹 Unpleasant sour smell – Indicates spoilage, best to throw it away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Stottie Cake 🤔🍞
Here are some common questions and answers to help you make the perfect stottie cake and solve any baking dilemmas.
1. What is Stottie Cake?
Answer:
Stottie cake is a traditional flatbread from North East England, characterized by its round, flat shape and soft, chewy texture. Unlike most bread, it is baked in an oven after being flattened and shaped into a thick round. It is typically served sliced and filled with various ingredients, like ham, pease pudding, or bacon.
2. Can I Make Stottie Cake Without a Bread Machine?
Answer:
Yes, you can make stottie cake without a bread machine. Simply follow the traditional method of mixing, kneading, and proofing the dough by hand or with a stand mixer. After shaping, allow the dough to rest and rise before baking it in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F).
3. Why is Stottie Cake Flat and Not a Loaf?
Answer:
Stottie cake’s signature flat, round shape is due to its unique baking method. After the dough rises, it is shaped into a thick disc and baked directly in the oven. The flat shape helps it develop a chewy crust and makes it perfect for sandwiches or serving with meals.
4. How Do I Keep My Stottie Cake Soft?
Answer:
To keep your stottie cake soft:
- Store it properly—wrap it in a clean towel or airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Reheat slices in the oven or toaster if it has become a little dry.
- Add moisture during baking by brushing the top with water or butter before putting it in the oven.
5. Can I Freeze Stottie Cake?
Answer:
Yes, stottie cake freezes well! To freeze:
- Slice the stottie cake if desired.
- Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label with the freezing date.
When you’re ready to eat, you can thaw it at room temperature or heat it directly in the oven or toaster.
6. What’s the Difference Between Stottie Cake and Other Flatbreads?
Answer:
While many flatbreads are baked on a griddle or in a pan, stottie cake is oven-baked, giving it a dense, chewy texture. Additionally, stottie cake is thicker than many flatbreads and is often used as a sandwich bread or served with meaty fillings.
7. Can I Add Fillings Directly into the Dough?
Answer:
While traditional stottie cake does not typically include fillings in the dough itself, you can experiment by adding herbs, cheese, or spices to the dough for extra flavor. However, the classic method involves adding the filling after baking by slicing and filling the stottie cake.
8. How Can I Tell If My Stottie Cake Is Fully Baked?
Answer:
To check if your stottie cake is fully baked:
- Tap the bottom of the cake. If it sounds hollow, it’s done.
- The top should be golden brown, and the crust should feel slightly firm to the touch.
- If you’re unsure, bake for a few extra minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
9. Can I Make Stottie Cake Gluten-Free?
Answer:
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of stottie cake by substituting the bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. However, the texture and structure might differ slightly, and you may need to adjust the liquid and yeast amounts. Using xanthan gum or guar gum may also help improve the texture.
10. How Do I Serve Stottie Cake?
Answer:
Stottie cake is versatile and can be served in several ways:
- Classic fillings like ham and pease pudding or bacon and egg.
- With cheese and pickle for a savory snack.
- As a side dish with soups, stews, or curries.
- Toasted with butter or jam for a simple treat.
Conclusion 🍞✨
Stottie cake is a delicious and iconic bread from North East England, known for its soft, chewy texture and versatile nature. Whether you’re using a bread machine for convenience or baking it by hand for a more traditional approach, the process is straightforward and rewarding. From classic fillings like ham and pease pudding to creative options like pulled pork or Mediterranean vegetables, stottie cake is perfect for any occasion.
By following the right storage techniques, you can enjoy your stottie cake fresh for days or even freeze it for later use. And with a variety of ways to serve it, from toasted slices to hearty sandwiches, the possibilities are endless.