Prue’s Vegan Parkin Recipe: Easy & Delicious Treat

Parkin is a traditional British gingerbread cake that’s beloved for its moist texture and rich, spicy flavor. However, many classic recipes rely on butter and eggs, making them unsuitable for a vegan lifestyle.

That’s where Prue’s Vegan Parkin Recipe comes in! This version maintains all the nostalgic warmth and sweetness you crave, using wholesome plant-based ingredients that make it both delicious and accessible.

Whether you’re vegan, allergic to dairy and eggs, or simply looking to try a healthier twist on a classic treat, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

With its hearty oats, fragrant ginger, and sticky golden syrup, this vegan parkin is perfect for cozy afternoons with a cup of tea or as a comforting dessert. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and stores beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for holidays and gatherings.

Let’s dive into this wonderful recipe that honours tradition while embracing modern plant-based goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Prue’s Vegan Parkin recipe is a celebration of flavor and texture that doesn’t compromise on authenticity. The deep molasses notes from the black treacle and golden syrup blend perfectly with warming spices like ginger and cinnamon.

Using oats instead of plain flour adds a lovely chewiness and boosts the nutrition, making every bite satisfying.

This recipe is designed to be simple and approachable. It doesn’t require any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients, so you can whip it up anytime you want a cozy treat.

It’s also free from common allergens like dairy and eggs, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.

Best of all, vegan parkin improves with age, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight—perfect for preparing in advance. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe promises a moist, tender, and irresistibly spiced cake that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

• 225g rolled oats (use gluten-free if required)
• 200g self-raising flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 100g light brown sugar
• 100g black treacle (or molasses)
• 100g golden syrup
• 150ml plant-based milk (oat, soy, or almond)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (neutral oil like sunflower or rapeseed)
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• 8-inch square baking tin
• Baking parchment (to line the tin)
• Small saucepan (for warming syrup and treacle)
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) fan or 180°C (350°F) conventional. Line your baking tin with parchment paper, ensuring the sides are covered for easy removal.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, self-raising flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ground ginger, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and raising agent.
3. Warm the syrup mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the black treacle and golden syrup with the vegetable oil. Stir continuously until it forms a smooth, runny mixture. Remove from heat.
4. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate jug, combine the plant-based milk, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract. Stir and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to create a vegan “buttermilk” effect.
5. Combine wet and dry: Pour the syrup mixture and the “buttermilk” into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use your wooden spoon or spatula to mix everything together until fully combined. The batter will be thick and sticky.
6. Transfer to baking tin: Spoon the mixture into your lined baking tin and press it down evenly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
7. Bake the parkin: Place the tin in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is firm and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool completely: Remove the parkin from the oven and let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool fully.
9. Age for best flavor: For the classic sticky, moist texture, wrap the cooled parkin tightly in foil or plastic wrap and leave it for 24 hours before slicing. This step enhances the flavors beautifully.
10. Slice and serve: Cut the parkin into squares and enjoy with a hot cup of tea or your favorite plant-based milk latte.

Tips & Variations

“Parkin loves time! For the best texture and flavor, always let it rest for at least a day before serving.”

• Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free self-raising flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for extra warmth and complexity.
• Sweetener swaps: If you don’t have golden syrup, use maple syrup or agave nectar, but note that this may slightly change the texture and flavor.
• Add-ins: Mix in 50g chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) or vegan chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Storage: Parkin keeps well wrapped at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze slices for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Parkin is traditionally served with a hot cup of tea, and Prue’s vegan version is no exception. For a comforting afternoon treat, serve slices warm with a drizzle of plant-based cream or vegan custard.

It also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

For an indulgent breakfast, try topping warmed parkin with fresh berries and a spoonful of coconut yogurt. If you’re hosting a cozy gathering, cut the parkin into bite-sized squares and serve alongside a selection of vegan cheeses and fruit preserves.

Looking for more delicious vegan baking ideas? Check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or try your hand at soft loaves with the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

For a touch of creamy sauce to accompany pasta or vegetable dishes, explore the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

Conclusion

Prue’s Vegan Parkin Recipe is a wonderful fusion of tradition and plant-based innovation. It brings all the comforting warmth and rich flavors of classic parkin to those who follow a vegan lifestyle or anyone seeking a wholesome, tasty treat.

The use of oats and natural sweeteners ensures a moist and chewy texture that’s simply irresistible after resting for a day.

This recipe is perfect for baking enthusiasts of all levels, offering flexibility with ingredients and variations to suit your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea or sharing with loved ones at a festive occasion, this vegan parkin will become a cherished staple.

Give it a try and discover a new favorite that honors the past while embracing compassionate, modern cooking.

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