Introduction
Homemade fruit cake is a delightful treat that embodies the essence of the holidays. This moist cake is packed with a rich array of dried fruits, warm spices, and crunchy nuts, making it a perfect addition to festive gatherings or an indulgent snack with your afternoon tea. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it with your favorite fruits and nuts. Let's dive into the recipe!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- All-purpose flour: 250g
- Unsalted butter, softened: 200g
- Brown sugar: 200g
- Large eggs: 4
- Milk: 120ml
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
- Ground nutmeg: ½ tsp
- Mixed dried fruits (raisins, cherries, cranberries): 250g
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: 100g
- Rum or orange juice (for soaking the fruits): 60ml
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 1 loaf cake
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 160°C. Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Soak the mixed dried fruits in rum or orange juice for at least 30 minutes to soften and enhance their flavor.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set this aside for later.
4. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until the batter is well combined and smooth.
6. Gently fold in the soaked dried fruits along with the chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 75-90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that it is fully cooked.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. For the best flavor, wrap the cooled cake and let it sit for a day before serving. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it and lining the bottom and sides with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Soak the Dried Fruits
In a bowl, soak the mixed dried fruits (raisins, cherries, cranberries) in rum or orange juice. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes to enhance their flavor and moisture.
Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the large eggs to the butter and sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. Be careful not to over-mix.
Step 7: Add Fruits and Nuts
Gently fold in the soaked dried fruits and the chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter, ensuring an even distribution throughout.
Step 8: Pour Batter into Pan
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 75-90 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 10: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 11: Wrap and Store
For optimal flavor, wrap the cooled cake and let it rest for at least one day before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
Note 1: Fruit Soaking Time
Soaking the dried fruits for more than 30 minutes enhances their flavor and moisture, but you can soak them overnight for even better results.
Note 2: Substitutions
Feel free to use your favorite dried fruits and nuts. This recipe is versatile and can accommodate various combinations.
Note 3: Storage
Store the wrapped fruit cake in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator. It can last for several weeks and often tastes better as it sits!
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
Serve the fruit cake with a cup of tea, or use it for festive occasions and celebrations. It's also delightful as a gift for friends and family.
Storage Instructions
Short-Term Storage
Store your homemade fruit cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor.
Long-Term Storage
For longer storage, wrap your fruit cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
With Tea or Coffee
Slice and serve your fruit cake alongside a warm cup of your favorite tea or coffee. The spices and fruits pair beautifully with hot beverages.
Cheese Pairing
Consider pairing the fruit cake with a selection of cheeses. Cream cheese, brie, or blue cheese enhance the sweet and spiced flavors of the cake.
As a Dessert
Serve warm, drizzled with a light glaze or cream, or enjoy as is for a delightful dessert that highlights its rich ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (approx. 1 slice)
Calories: 250
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 15g
Protein: 4g
This nutritional breakdown may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
Ingredient Substitutions
Flour
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Butter
You can use coconut oil or vegetable oil as a dairy-free alternative to unsalted butter.
Brown Sugar
Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Dried Fruits
Feel free to customize the mix with your choice of dried fruits such as apricots, figs, or dates.
Nuts
Almonds or hazelnuts can be used in place of walnuts or pecans for a unique twist.
Rum or Orange Juice
If you want to avoid alcohol, simply use apple juice or water to soak the dried fruits.
Cook techniques
Creaming
Creaming is the process of beating butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This technique incorporates air into the batter, helping to create a lighter texture in your fruit cake.
Soaking Fruits
Soaking the dried fruits in rum or orange juice prior to mixing them into the batter enhances their flavor and moisture, ensuring a richer taste in the final cake.
Mixing Method
When combining wet and dry ingredients, alternate between adding them to the mixture. This technique helps maintain the batter’s structure and prevents overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
Folding
Use the folding technique to incorporate soaked fruits and nuts gently into the batter. This prevents the fruits from breaking apart and ensures even distribution throughout the cake.
Baking
Bake the fruit cake at a low temperature to allow even cooking and to develop flavors over time. Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.
FAQ
Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?
Fresh fruits have a higher water content and may alter the texture of the cake. It's best to stick with dried fruits for the best results.
How long will the fruit cake last?
When stored in an airtight container, the fruit cake can last for several weeks. For optimal flavor, it’s best enjoyed after letting it rest for a day.
Can I skip soaking the fruits?
Soaking enhances the flavor and moisture of the fruits, but if you're short on time, you can omit this step, though the cake may be less rich.
What kind of nuts can I use?
You can use any nuts you like such as almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts. Just ensure they are chopped to maintain an even texture.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure it's a blend that binds well for best results.
Conclusion
Homemade fruit cake is a delightful treat that brings warmth and richness to any occasion. Its combination of dried fruits, nuts, and spices creates a deliciously moist texture that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Making it from scratch not only allows for customization but also fills your kitchen with enticing aromas, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings or special celebrations. Enjoying this cake after allowing it to rest enhances its flavor, making every slice a heartwarming experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Fruit Cake
Combine chocolate chips with the traditional fruit cake for a rich and decadent twist. The chocolate complements the dried fruits beautifully, creating a moist and flavorful dessert.
Citrus Zest Fruit Cake
Add the zest of oranges and lemons to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor. This brightens the cake and adds a vibrant aroma that is perfect for springtime celebrations.
Spiced Apple and Cranberry Cake
Incorporate diced apples and cranberries along with the mixed dried fruits. This combination adds a tartness and an extra layer of moisture to the cake.
Maple Pecan Fruit Cake
Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or brown sugar for a unique, caramel-like flavor. Adding pecans will give a delightful crunch to each bite.
Ginger and Apricot Cake
Incorporate chopped crystallized ginger and chopped dried apricots for a spicy-sweet flavor profile. This combination offers a chewy texture and warmth with every slice.
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