In actual fact I was dreading it, it looks old fashioned, boring and far too fruity for a chocolate lover like myself. Yet, I had to remind myself the whole reason I was undertaking these challenges was to break free of my chocolate cupcake rut, so a Cumberland Rum Nicky it was!
The Prep
I am going to admit, during my unenthusiasm for this bake I got slightly lazy. I did the worst thing a baker can do- I didn't follow the recipe. I substituted ingredients.. my friends reading this will know this is actually a rather common occurrence when I bake, however, they are also aware of how badly this can go. So I used raisins instead of dates and light rum instead of dark rum. What could go wrong?
The Bake
First time making short-crust pastry and I was surprised at how easy it was! Compared to all the long kneading dough recipes this was a really nice change. And the lattice (square design on the top) was really not too bad. This bake was so easy. Too easy one might say...
The Result
It actually went really well. It smelt good, and I was actually feeling proud of myself. I for once wasn't running around the kitchen like a mad woman. Maybe I am getting better? I thought it was so good I brought it to my boyfriend's house for dinner with his family.
A brave move...Once we sat down cutting the first slice, I realised my error. Without dates, it was primarily a raisin pie with few apricots. The standard of meals at their house are high, and this didn't really meet quite up to the usual standard. However, they were lovely, and his dad even said he would make his own pastry. A year ago my dog wouldn't eat my bakes, so I think I'm making progress!
...then I realised I only cooked 1 of the 2 requirements of the bake. I forgot the rum butter. Alas, some things never change!
No comments
Post a Comment