Pump Street Six Eccles Cakes: A Buying Guide for Pastry Lovers

For pastry lovers, few things rival the simple pleasure of a well-made Eccles cake. Flaky, buttery pastry wrapped around a spiced, currant-filled centre — it's a British classic that has been cherished for generations. At Pump Street Chocolate: Bakers and Chocolate Makers, these traditional treats are elevated with artisan care and the finest ingredients, making them a must-try for anyone who appreciates quality baking.

In this buying guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about Pump Street's Six Eccles Cakes. Whether you're a longtime fan of Eccles cakes or new to this delightful pastry, you'll learn how to select the perfect batch, what to expect in terms of flavour and texture, and how to pair them with other Pump Street offerings for an unforgettable experience.

What Are Pump Street Six Eccles Cakes?

Eccles cakes are a traditional English pastry originating from the town of Eccles in Greater Manchester. They consist of a puff pastry shell filled with currants, mixed peel, sugar, and spices like nutmeg or allspice. Pump Street's version stays true to this heritage while using their signature high-quality butter and carefully sourced currants. Each cake is baked fresh, resulting in a golden, flaky crust that shatters with each bite.

The 'Six Eccles Cakes' refers to a pack containing six individually sized pastries, perfect for sharing or enjoying over several days. They are sold through Pump Street's online shop and often featured in their seasonal pastry selections. For pastry lovers, this pack offers a convenient way to experience artisan baking without needing to visit a bakery in person.

• Traditional British recipe with modern artisan techniques
• Made with high-butter puff pastry for exceptional flakiness
• Spiced currant filling provides a sweet, tangy contrast

Flavour Profile and Texture: What to Expect

When you bite into a Pump Street Six Eccles Cake, the first sensation is the delicate crunch of the pastry layers. The butter content is generous, giving the crust a rich, melt-in-the-mouth quality that homemade versions often lack. Inside, the filling is moist but not sticky, with currants that have been plumped during baking. The spices — typically a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice — add warmth without overwhelming the fruit.

The sweetness is balanced, making these cakes suitable for both tea time and dessert. Unlike mass-produced versions, Pump Street's Eccles cakes avoid artificial flavours or preservatives. Each cake is a testament to the baker's craft, with a texture that remains fresh for several days when stored properly. For the best experience, warm them slightly in the oven before serving to revive the flakiness.

• Rich, buttery pastry with a satisfying crunch
• Filling features plump currants and warm spices
• Best enjoyed slightly warmed for optimal texture

How to Choose: Six Eccles Cakes vs Other Pump Street Pastries

Pump Street offers a range of pastries beyond Eccles cakes, including the Pain Aux Amandes 38% and the Panettone 70%. While the Pain Aux Amandes is an almond croissant with a chocolate twist, and the Panettone is a festive bread, the Six Eccles Cakes stand out for their simplicity and classic appeal. They are less sweet than the Pain Aux Amandes and more portable than the Panettone, making them an excellent everyday treat.

For pastry lovers who enjoy traditional British baking, the Eccles cakes are a no-brainer. If you prefer something richer or more chocolate-forward, consider pairing them with a chocolate product like the Madagascar Milk 58% Mini Bar for a contrast of flavours. The Eccles cakes also work beautifully alongside a cup of tea or coffee, whereas the Panettone is better suited for special occasions. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you crave a nostalgic pastry or a more decadent experience.

• Six Eccles Cakes: traditional, lightly sweet, perfect for tea time
• Pain Aux Amandes 38%: almond and chocolate, richer flavour
• Panettone 70%: festive, dense, ideal for holidays

Pairing Ideas for Pastry Lovers

One of the joys of buying Pump Street Six Eccles Cakes is the opportunity to pair them with other products from the bakery. For a classic afternoon tea, serve them with a pot of Earl Grey or a robust black tea. The floral notes of the tea complement the spiced currants beautifully. If you prefer coffee, a flat white or latte with nutty undertones will highlight the pastry's buttery character.

For a more indulgent experience, try pairing the Eccles cakes with a piece of Pump Street chocolate. The Madagascar Milk 58% Mini Bar, with its creamy caramel notes, creates a delightful contrast to the pastry's spice. Alternatively, for a savoury-sweet combination, enjoy the Eccles cakes alongside a slice of Pump Street's artisan bread. The bread's crusty texture and mild flavour provide a neutral base that lets the pastry shine.

• Tea: Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or English Breakfast
• Coffee: flat white, latte, or pour-over with nutty notes
• Chocolate: Madagascar Milk 58% Mini Bar for creamy contrast

How to Store and Serve Your Six Eccles Cakes

To maintain the flaky texture of your Pump Street Six Eccles Cakes, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to five days. Avoid refrigerating them, as the cold can make the pastry soggy when reheated. If you need to keep them longer, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

For serving, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and warm the cakes for 5–7 minutes. This revives the crispness of the pastry and warms the filling, making the spices more aromatic. You can also serve them at room temperature, but warmed Eccles cakes are undeniably superior. Dust with a little icing sugar for a touch of elegance, or serve with clotted cream for an extra decadent treat.

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
• Freeze for up to 3 months for long-term storage
• Reheat in oven at 180°C for 5–7 minutes for best texture

Whether you're a seasoned pastry lover or new to the world of artisan baking, Pump Street Six Eccles Cakes offer a taste of British tradition with exceptional quality. Their flaky pastry and spiced currant filling make them a versatile treat for any occasion. To explore more of Pump Street's artisan offerings, consider adding the Madagascar Milk 58% Mini Bar to your order for a perfect chocolate pairing. Visit the Pump Street online shop today and bring the taste of artisan baking to your home.