Treacle Buckle

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 20cm (8 inch) square baking tin and line it with parchment paper.

   Tip: Use a non-stick tin to prevent the buckle from sticking

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and golden syrup until light and fluffy.

   Tip: Use an electric mixer for this step

3. 3

   Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract (if using) to the bowl and mix until well combined.

   Tip: Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl

4. 4

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

   Tip: Make sure to sift the flour for extra lightness

5. 5

   Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

   Tip: Don't overmix the dough

6. 6

   Add the milk and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.

   Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour

7. 7

   Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead a few times until it comes together.

   Tip: Don't overwork the dough

8. 8

   Roll the dough out to a thickness of about 5mm (1/4 inch) and transfer it to the prepared tin.

   Tip: Use a rolling pin to get an even thickness

9. 9

   Sprinkle the sultanas and raisins evenly over the top of the dough.

   Tip: Make sure to spread them out evenly

10. 10

    Drizzle the golden caster sugar over the top of the buckle.

    Tip: Use a spatula to spread it evenly

11. 11

    Bake the buckle for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

    Tip: Check the buckle after 30 minutes and cover the top with foil if it's getting too brown

12. 12

    Remove the buckle from the oven and let it cool in the tin for 5 minutes.

    Tip: Use a spatula to loosen the buckle from the tin

13. 13

    Transfer the buckle to a wire rack to cool completely.

    Tip: Let it cool completely before slicing and serving