When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the nostalgic aroma of freshly baked fruitcake wafting through the kitchen. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a classic favorite with a modern twist – Moist Fruit Cake Mary Berry. This delightful cake is packed with a medley of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, all enveloped in a tender, moist crumb that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into making this comforting treat that’s perfect for any special occasion or a cozy afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, apricots, and cherries)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans)
– 1/2 cup dark rum or orange juice
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, chopped nuts, and rum or orange juice. Let the mixture soak for about 30 minutes to allow the fruits to plump up.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Fold in the soaked fruit and nut mixture, along with any remaining liquid, until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, wrap the fruitcake in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to a week to allow the flavors to meld.
11. When ready to serve, you can dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar or glaze it with a simple sugar syrup for a polished finish.
This Moist Fruit Cake Mary Berry is a true crowd-pleaser that embodies the essence of warmth and comfort. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a slice of homemade goodness, this recipe is sure to delight. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a memorable treat that will become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire.
