Mary Berry’s Boiled Fruit Cake: A Simple and Flavorful Bake

Get ready to enjoy the wonderful Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake. It’s a beloved British dessert that is easy yet full of flavour. This cake is moist thanks to a special boiling method. It softens the dried fruits and fills them with delicious richness. It’s great for holiday parties or a cosy afternoon tea.

This cake is made with popular dried fruits like sultanas, raisins, and currants. It’s a joy for anyone to bake, especially if you’re new to baking. This recipe is straightforward. You’ll learn to make a cake that’s perfectly sweet and textured, fitting for all events.

Introduction to Mary Berry’s Boiled Fruit Cake

Mary Berry is a famous name in the world of British baking. She brings us a recipe that captures the essence of classic treats. Boiled fruit cake background shows a unique method. Dried fruits are boiled with butter and sugar. This makes the cake moist and full of flavour, loved by people of all ages. This cake is a star at family gatherings and special events. It shows how easy baking can be, yet it still offers a rich taste.

This cake stands out because of its rich ingredients. These ingredients boost its flavour and add a special texture. Anyone looking for a reliable and impressive recipe for celebrations will treasure Mary Berry’s recipes. The easy, charming way this cake is made makes it a hit among experienced and new bakers.

This cake is a shining example of British baking. It fits perfectly with a casual afternoon tea or a big holiday dinner. Its versatility allows bakers to add their own creative twists. Enjoying a piece of Mary Berry’s cake means more than just tasting something delicious. It’s like experiencing a piece of baking history.

The Unique Boiling Method of Fruit Cake

Mary Berry’s fruit cake recipe uses a special boiling method. This technique combines mixed dried fruits, butter, and brown sugar in a pot. As they boil, the fruits soak up the flavours, making the cake richer and tastier.

This moist cake method keeps the cake soft and juicy. Boiling the dried fruits with sweetness means every bite is delicious. It also makes baking quicker and easier, suiting both new and expert bakers.

The key to this method is 300g of mixed dried fruit, 175g of unsalted butter, and 175g of light muscovado sugar, mixed with 300ml of water. Boiling these ingredients together fills the kitchen with a lovely smell.

This unique boiling method does more than improve the cake; it embraces home cooking comfort. It’s about making food that brings joy and impresses everyone, using simple steps.

Ingredient	Amount
Mixed dried fruit	300g
Unsalted butter	175g
Light muscovado sugar	175g
Water	300ml
Baking time	1.5 to 2 hours
Calories per serving	300-350
Fat per serving	12-15g
Carbohydrates per serving	50-55g

Key Ingredients for a Delicious Boiled Fruit Cake

Mary Berry’s boiled fruit cake is famous for good reason. Every ingredient plays a part in creating its rich taste and moist texture. This cake has won the hearts of bakers and cake lovers everywhere.

Mixed Dried Fruits

The mixed dried fruits are crucial. They bring sweetness and a nice chewy texture. The mix includes sultanas, raisins, currants, and mixed peel. These give the cake its unique taste.

• 425g currants
• 250g sultanas
• 250g raisins
• 300g glacé cherries
• 150g ready-to-eat dried apricots
• 75g mixed candied peel

Soaked in brandy, these fruits not only taste great but also keep the cake moist. It’s no wonder this cake stands out. For more fun with fruit in desserts, check out Mary Berry’s coconut cake recipes.

Essential Baking Components

The baking components are vital for the cake’s structure and taste. Key ingredients are:

• 300g softened unsalted butter for richness
• 300g dark muscovado sugar for flavour depth
• 300g plain flour as a strong base
• 5 medium free-range eggs for binding and texture
• 1 tbsp black treacle for added sweetness
• Zest of lemon and orange to enhance the flavour

Adding baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and mixed spices helps the cake rise and taste wonderful. Chopped almonds give a crunchy twist to this rich and moist cake.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Boiled Fruit Cake

Making a boiled fruit cake needs attention to detail for a moist, tasty cake. We’ll guide you through the important steps, starting with preparing the fruit mix.

Preparing the Fruit Mixture

Begin by mixing these items in a big saucepan:

• Condensed milk
• Butter
• Raisins
• Sultanas
• Currants
• Glacé cherries
• Water

Boil the mix on medium heat then simmer until the fruit is soft, about 10-15 minutes. After boiling, cool it off. This step gives your cake its special flavour.

Baking the Cake to Perfection

Heat your oven to 140C/120C Fan/Gas 1. Put the cooled fruit mix in a mixing bowl. In another bowl, mix your dry ingredients like flour and spices. Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the fruit mix.

Then, put the mix into a cake tin and spread it out. Bake it in the oven’s centre for 4 to 4½ hours. To check if it’s cooked, insert a skewer; it should be clean. Let the cake cool in the tin before moving it to a wire rack.

Let the cake soak for three days, stirring daily. This makes sure the flavours blend well. Following these detailed steps will make a cake that’s as delightful as Mary Berry’s creations.

Serving Suggestions for Your Boiled Fruit Cake

Enjoying Mary Berry’s boiled fruit cake is even better with the right accompaniments. Pair the cake with clotted cream or sharp cheese for a blend of tastes. The combination of creamy or savoury with the cake’s sweetness is delightful.

Pairing with Clotted Cream or Cheese

This cake pairs wonderfully with light whipped cream or butter at afternoon tea. These additions bring out its natural sweetness, keeping it a enjoyable treat. Have it with a warm cup of tea to bring out its best flavours, perfect for any event.

Accompaniments for Afternoon Tea

Mary Berry’s boiled fruit cake is great because it’s so adaptable. Adding fresh fruits or nuts can add interesting textures and contrasts. It turns the cake into a wonderful dessert for any setting. Try it with different sides, maybe taking inspiration from recipes like Coconut Cake or fruit cake loaf for a real baking adventure.

FAQ

What makes Mary Berry’s Boiled Fruit Cake unique?

Its special boiling method mixes dried fruits with rich tastes, making it moist and loved by all. This way, the taste gets better, and baking becomes easier.

Can I use different dried fruits in the recipe?

Yes, feel free to try new dried fruits like apricots or cranberries. Just keep the total weight near 500g.

Is this cake suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! It’s great for parties and afternoon tea. Its delicious taste and soft texture are ideal for any celebration.

How should I store my boiled fruit cake?

Keep it in an airtight container at a normal room temperature. It stays good for days and might even taste better with time. If needed, you can freeze it for longer.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Making the cake early is fine. The taste often improves after a few days. Just wrap it well to keep it moist.

What drink pairs best with Mary Berry’s Boiled Fruit Cake?

A hot drink like tea or coffee goes well with this cake. Its fruity and spicy flavours match perfectly. Try it with clotted cream or cheese for a tasty mix.