Eccles cakes are a classic British pastry—flaky, buttery puff pastry wrapped around a sweet, spiced currant filling, traditionally named after the town of Eccles in Greater Manchester. In Liverpool, they’re a beloved teatime treat, and while the city has plenty of bakeries, a few stand out for their authentic recipe, flaky texture, and generous filling. Here’s our top pick and a guide to finding the best Eccles cake in Liverpool.
Top Pick: The Flour Shop Bakery
If you want the definitive Eccles cake experience in Liverpool, head to The Flour Shop Bakery on Bold Street. Their Eccles cake is everything you hope for: a crisp, light puff pastry that shatters when you bite, a warm, gooey currant filling with just the right balance of spice and sugar, and a generous dusting of sugar on top. It’s baked fresh daily, and the pastry is made with real butter, giving it a rich, authentic flavor that’s hard to beat.
What to Look For
Not all Eccles cakes are created equal. Here’s what separates a great one from a mediocre one:
- Pastry quality: The best Eccles cakes use all-butter puff pastry that’s flaky and light, not dense or greasy. It should have visible layers and a crisp exterior.
- Filling ratio: A good Eccles cake has a generous filling of currants (or raisins) that’s moist and plump, not dry or sparse. The filling should be spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, and lightly sweetened.
- Sweetness balance: The sugar on top should be a light dusting, not a thick crust. The pastry itself should be slightly savory to contrast the sweet filling.
- Freshness: Eccles cakes are best eaten the same day they’re baked. A stale one will be tough and dry.
- Size: A traditional Eccles cake is about 3-4 inches across, perfect for one person. Some places make them larger, but the classic size is ideal for a snack with tea.
Recommended Options in Liverpool
1. The Flour Shop Bakery (Bold Street)
Strengths: All-butter puff pastry, generous currant filling, perfectly spiced, baked fresh daily. The bakery has a loyal following and is known for its artisanal approach.
Trade-offs: They can sell out by mid-afternoon, so go early. It’s a small shop with limited seating, so it’s best for takeaway.
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants a classic, high-quality Eccles cake without fuss.
2. The Baltic Bakehouse (Bread Street)
Strengths: This bakery is famous for its sourdough, but their Eccles cake is a hidden gem. It’s slightly larger than average, with a darker, more caramelized sugar topping and a hint of orange zest in the filling. The pastry is exceptionally flaky, almost croissant-like.
Trade-offs: The orange zest might not appeal to purists. It’s also a bit pricier than other options, and the bakery is a bit off the main tourist trail.
Who it’s for: Those who enjoy a modern twist on the classic, with a more pronounced citrus flavor.
3. The Artisan Bakery (Allerton Road)
Strengths: A family-run bakery that’s been around for decades, they make a very traditional Eccles cake with a no-nonsense approach. The filling is packed with currants, and the pastry is sturdy yet flaky, perfect for dunking in tea. They also offer a gluten-free version on Fridays (call ahead).
Trade-offs: The pastry is a bit less buttery than some, and the sugar topping is more restrained. The bakery is cash-only, which can be inconvenient.
Who it’s for: Traditionalists who want a no-frills, authentic Eccles cake at a very reasonable price.
4. The Little Cake Shop (Smithdown Road)
Strengths: This cozy shop makes mini Eccles cakes (about 2 inches) that are perfect for sharing or for a small treat. They’re baked throughout the day, so you’ll often get one warm from the oven. The filling has a lovely hint of lemon zest and a generous amount of spice.
Trade-offs: The mini size means you might need two or three to satisfy a craving. They also don’t have a huge selection of other pastries, so it’s a one-trick pony.
Who it’s for: Those who want a quick, warm bite and don’t mind a smaller portion.
5. The Old Bakehouse (Castle Street)
Strengths: Located in the city center, this is a convenient option for tourists and office workers. Their Eccles cake is solid, with a good balance of pastry and filling, and they often have them still warm at lunchtime. They also offer a vegan version that uses vegetable shortening instead of butter—surprisingly good.
Trade-offs: The pastry is a bit less flaky than the top picks, and the filling can be a little dry if you get one that’s been sitting out. The vegan version, while tasty, lacks the rich buttery flavor.
Who it’s for: Those who need a convenient, central location and are open to a vegan option.
How to Choose
Your choice of Eccles cake in Liverpool will depend on your priorities:
- Budget: All the options above are reasonably priced (between £1.50 and £2.50 each). The Artisan Bakery is the cheapest, while The Baltic Bakehouse is the priciest. If you’re watching your wallet, go for The Artisan Bakery.
- Use case: If you’re planning a picnic or a day out, get a few from The Flour Shop or The Artisan Bakery—they travel well. If you want a quick treat while shopping, The Old Bakehouse is central. If you’re after a warm, immediate bite, The Little Cake Shop is your best bet.
- Flavor preferences: If you like a classic, buttery taste, The Flour Shop is the winner. If you enjoy a citrus twist, try The Baltic Bakehouse. If you prefer a less sweet version, The Artisan Bakery is more restrained.
- Dietary needs: For gluten-free, The Artisan Bakery has a Friday option. For vegan, The Old Bakehouse offers a plant-based version. Note that these are exceptions, not the norm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes an Eccles cake different from a currant square?
An Eccles cake is typically round, made with puff pastry, and has a distinct sugar topping. A currant square is usually a rectangular pastry with a similar filling but often uses a shortcrust or a different pastry style. The Eccles cake is also more associated with the town of Eccles and has a protected geographical indication (PGI) in the UK, meaning it must be made in a specific area to be called a true Eccles cake.
Are Eccles cakes served warm or cold?
Traditionally, they’re served warm, fresh from the oven, but they’re also delicious at room temperature. If you’re reheating one, a few minutes in a toaster oven or a hot pan will revive the flakiness.
Can I freeze Eccles cakes?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.
What’s the best way to store them?
Store Eccles cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. After that, they’ll start to go stale. Do not refrigerate them, as that will make the pastry soggy.
Are there any famous Eccles cake shops in Liverpool?
While no single shop is as famous as the ones in Eccles itself, The Flour Shop Bakery has gained a strong reputation locally for its high-quality pastries. The Baltic Bakehouse is also well-regarded among foodies.
Can I find Eccles cakes at the Liverpool Christmas Market?
Yes, during the festive season, many market stalls sell Eccles cakes, often with a mulled wine or hot chocolate. However, the quality varies, so look for stalls that bake them fresh on-site.
Bottom Line
For the best Eccles cake in Liverpool, make a beeline to The Flour Shop Bakery on Bold Street. Their commitment to all-butter pastry and a well-spiced, generous filling makes it the standout choice for both locals and visitors. If you’re near Allerton Road and want a more traditional, budget-friendly option, The Artisan Bakery is a solid runner-up. And if you’re looking for a vegan or gluten-free version, The Old Bakehouse and The Artisan Bakery have you covered, respectively. Whichever you choose, enjoy it with a strong cup of tea for the full experience.
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