An Eccles cake is a small, round pie, similar to a turnover, filled with currants and made from flaky pastry with butter, sometimes topped with demerara sugar. The word cake has generally since narrowed in meaning to sweet, leavened baked goods, except this example.

Why are they called Eccles cakes?

Eccles cakes are named for the town of Eccles in Lancashire, England, now classified as a town in the City of Salford, Greater Manchester. Though their origin long predates him, it was James Birch who became the first person to sell Eccles cakes commercially in 1793 in the Eccles town centre.

What is the difference between an Eccles cake?

Both are filled with currants but Eccles cakes are made with a flaky pastry, while Chorley cakes are made with shortcrust pastry. Chorley cakes are generally less sweet and thinner and may be served with some butter or cheese on top. Eccles cakes are usually served on their own, although cheese does pair well.