Introduction:
Boiled fruit cake is a timeless and classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. Its rich, moist texture and complex flavors make it a favorite for holidays, special occasions, or just a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. This recipe will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating a perfect boiled fruit cake that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas, and chopped dates)
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of unsalted butter
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- One teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- One teaspoon of baking soda
- Three large eggs
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Fruit Mixture:
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the mixed dried fruits and water.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the butter, stirring until it melts.
Stir in the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt.
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan.
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking soda.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Once the fruit mixture has cooled, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually fold in the sifted dry ingredients until well combined.
If desired, fold in the chopped nuts for an extra crunch.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Glaze or Frosting:
Once the cake has cooled, you can opt to drizzle a simple glaze or frost with cream cheese frosting for added sweetness.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cake into wedges and serve on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion:
This boiled fruit cake recipe is a celebration of tradition and flavor. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday feast or simply craving a comforting slice of goodness, this classic boiled fruit cake is sure to become a cherished favorite in your repertoire of desserts.
