Introduction
Mary Berry’s Boiled Fruit Cake is a timeless classic that is both comforting and flavorful. The cake has a wonderful blend of dried fruits, fragrant spices, and a rich, moist texture that’s perfect for any occasion.
It’s incredibly easy to make, and the method of boiling the fruit creates a lovely softness that sets it apart from other fruit cakes.
Whether for a special celebration or just a cozy treat, this cake is sure to please everyone.
This recipe is ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional approach to baking but with a twist. The combination of fruit, spices, and a touch of citrus brings.
the cake to life, offering a sweet, spiced fragrance throughout. Mary Berry’s Boiled Fruit Cake is guaranteed to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
To create this delicious fruit cake, gather the following ingredients:
FOR THE CAKE:
225g (1 cup) unsalted butter
225g (1 cup) soft brown sugar
225g (1 ½ cups) mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas, etc.)
Zest and juice of 1 orange
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon mixed spice
2 large eggs (beaten)
225g (1 ¾ cups) self-raising flour
Instructions
Begin by preparing the fruit. In a large saucepan, place the mixed dried fruit along with the butter, brown sugar, orange zest, and juice.
Gently heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved.
Allow this to simmer for about 10 minutes to help infuse the fruit with all the flavors.
Once the fruit has been boiled, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool for about 20 minutes.
During this time, preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) or 325°F (300°F fan) and line a round cake tin with baking parchment.
Next, sift the self-raising flour into a bowl along with the cinnamon and mixed spice. Once the fruit mixture has cooled slightly, add the beaten eggs and stir to combine.
Gradually fold in the flour and spice mixture, ensuring everything is well mixed and the batter is smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, spreading it out evenly. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
If the top of the cake is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking until fully cooked.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. Then
transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will allow the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up nicely.
Serve the cake once fully cooled. You can enjoy it as is or with a simple dusting of icing sugar on top.
This cake will keep well for several days, and its flavor improves over time as the spices continue to develop.
How to Make
Making this cake is as simple as it is satisfying. The key to a successful Boiled Fruit Cake is taking the time to properly combine the ingredients, particularly the dried fruit and spices.
This slow boiling process helps the fruit soften and absorb the flavors, making each bite rich and moist. The resulting cake has a delightful density without being too heavy.
Start by boiling the fruit mixture, ensuring it is fully dissolved and blended. The cooling period is crucial to ensure the eggs don’t cook when added to the warm mixture.
Mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding them ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Once the batter is prepared, be careful not to overfill the cake tin, as the cake rises during baking.
Patience is also important during baking – do not open the oven door too early to ensure the cake rises evenly. Finally, allowing the cake to cool slowly ensures the perfect texture.
Variations
This recipe offers a lot of room for creativity. You can adjust the types of dried fruit depending on your preferences.
Try adding some chopped dried apricots or dates for a twist. For an extra festive flair, consider adding a handful of chopped glacé cherries or even a splash of brandy or rum for a more mature flavor.
If you prefer a nutty addition, you could incorporate some chopped walnuts or almonds into the mix.
To make the cake a bit lighter, substitute some of the dried fruit for fresh fruit like apples or pears.
You can also experiment with different spices – nutmeg or ground ginger can bring a warming kick to the cake.
For those who like a sweeter cake, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the finished cake. Alternatively.
top it with a layer of marzipan and icing for a more celebratory finish, turning it into a holiday centerpiece.
Tips
To ensure the best results, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. If the fruit and butter mixture is too hot when you add the eggs.
they might cook, creating a lumpy texture. Allowing it to cool slightly will help avoid this.
Line the cake tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier once the cake is baked.
If you prefer a deeper flavor, you can soak the dried fruit in orange juice or tea the night before you make the cake.
During the baking process, resist the urge to open the oven door too frequently, as this can cause the cake to sink.
To test for doneness, insert a skewer or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
For an extra boost of flavor, try glazing the top of the cake with apricot jam or a citrus glaze once it has cooled. This adds a nice sheen and additional sweetness.
Store the cake in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. You can also wrap it in wax paper or foil to help it stay moist for longer. If you like, the cake can also be frozen, making it a great option for preparing in advance.
For those looking for a lighter texture, try reducing the amount of butter and adding a touch more fruit. This will give the cake a slightly less rich but still flavorful result.
Finally, if you love a spicy kick, don’t hesitate to increase the amount of cinnamon and mixed spice, tailoring the flavor to your taste.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Boiled Fruit Cake is a wonderfully moist and flavorful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its rich combination of dried fruit.
spices, and citrus, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it as an afternoon snack or at a special gathering, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
It’s simple yet indulgent, making it the perfect choice for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors that come with each bite.