Mum’s Boiled Fruit Cake
Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake
Introduction
Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake is a delightful recipe that brings warm memories and delicious flavors together in one simple dish. It is not only easy to make but also perfect for family gatherings or cozy afternoons. The mix of dried fruits gives this cake a lovely texture and sweetness that everyone will adore.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake because it's a breeze to whip up on a busy day or to share with loved ones on the weekend. It’s comforting, satisfying, and incredibly tasty! Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. This cake is a wonderful way to enjoy family traditions while filling your home with a delicious aroma.
How to Make Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon mixed spice
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 2 large eggs
Directions
- In a pot, combine the mixed dried fruit, water, butter, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then simmer for a few minutes. Cool slightly.
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease a cake tin.
- In a bowl, mix the flour and mixed spice.
- Add the cooled fruit mixture to the flour mixture, then stir in the eggs and nuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the cake tin and smooth it out.
- Bake for about 1 hour or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
How to Serve Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake
You can serve Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own, but you can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee!
How to Store Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake
To store Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you have leftovers, you can also freeze individual slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This way, you'll have a sweet treat ready whenever you crave it!
Tips to Make Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake
- Make sure to let the fruit mixture cool slightly before adding the eggs to prevent them from scrambling.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of mixed spice to suit your taste.
- If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can use all-purpose flour with a teaspoon of baking powder.
Variation
You can add different types of dried fruits, like apricots or figs, for a unique flavor. Adding a splash of orange juice or zest will also brighten up the cake!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
It's best to use dried fruit for this recipe, as fresh fruit may change the texture of the cake.
2. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
You can substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it has a leavening agent included.
3. How long can I store the cake?
Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake can be stored at room temperature for about a week and can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to wrap it well!
Mum's Boiled Fruit Cake
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit A mix of your favorite dried fruits.
- 1 cup water For boiling with the fruits.
- 1/2 cup butter Unsalted, for richness.
- 1 cup brown sugar For sweetness and moisture.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups self-raising flour Can substitute with all-purpose flour and baking powder.
- 1 teaspoon mixed spice Adjust according to preference.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts Optional.
Other Ingredients
- 2 large eggs Large eggs, at room temperature.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a pot, combine the mixed dried fruit, water, butter, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then simmer for a few minutes. Cool slightly.
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease a cake tin.
Mixing
- In a bowl, mix the flour and mixed spice.
- Add the cooled fruit mixture to the flour mixture, then stir in the eggs and nuts (if using).
Baking
- Pour the batter into the cake tin and smooth it out.
- Bake for about 1 hour or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
