Fruit Cake
Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Fruit cake is a timeless classic that brings a burst of flavors to your palate. Bursting with dried fruits, nuts, and aromatic spices, it’s perfect for celebrations or a cozy dessert at home. This recipe is easy to follow, ensuring your cake turns out moist and flavorful, making it a delightful treat for you and your loved ones.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, cherries)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup orange juice
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and cooking time is about 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/8 of the cake) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g of fat, 35g of carbohydrates, 5g of protein, and 3g of fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a cake pan.
- In a bowl, mix dried fruits and nuts with a tablespoon of flour to prevent sticking.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and orange juice.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the floured fruits and nuts gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute dried fruits with fresh fruits if desired. You can also use gluten-free flour to make this cake gluten-free. For a vegan version, replace eggs with flaxseed meal and butter with coconut oil.
Serving and Pairings
This fruit cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It can also be served with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it a delightful treat for any gathering.
Storage and Reheating
Store the fruit cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. It can also be refrigerated for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze the cake wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake.
- Skipping the flour coating on fruits can cause them to sink.
- Opening the oven too soon can cause the cake to collapse.
- Baking at too high a temperature can burn the cake.
- Not allowing the cake to cool completely before storing can lead to sogginess.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Soak dried fruits in warm water or alcohol for added flavor.
- Decorate with nuts and fruits on top for an appealing finish.
- Adjust spices according to personal preference.
- Test for doneness with a toothpick before the baking time is up.
FAQs
How long does fruit cake last?
Fruit cake can last for weeks at room temperature and even longer when refrigerated or frozen. Proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness.
Can I use fresh fruits in a fruit cake?
While dried fruits are traditional, fresh fruits can be used, though they may alter the cake’s texture and moisture content.
Is fruit cake suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, by substituting eggs with flaxseed and butter with plant-based oils, fruit cake can be made vegan-friendly.
Can I make fruit cake in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, fruit cake often tastes better after a few days as the flavors meld together.
What can I do with leftover fruit cake?
Leftover fruit cake can be used to make trifle or blended into smoothies for a unique dessert twist.
Conclusion
Fruit cake is a delightful and versatile dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. With its rich flavors and texture, it’s perfect for any celebration or as a comforting treat at home. Try this recipe and savor the joy it brings to your table.
Fruit Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits raisins, currants, cherries
- 1 cup mixed nuts walnuts, almonds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a cake pan.
- In a bowl, mix dried fruits and nuts with a tablespoon of flour to prevent sticking.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and orange juice.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the floured fruits and nuts gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
