Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake Recipe

The Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake is a wonderfully rich and moist cake that’s perfect for afternoon tea or special occasions. This classic cake gets its name from the unique method of boiling the dried fruits in sugar, butter, and water, which helps them become plump and flavorful before being baked into a deliciously spiced cake. It’s an easy and straightforward recipe that results in a flavorful, dense cake that keeps well and can be enjoyed over several days.

What is Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake?

The Hairy Bikers’ Boiled Fruit Cake is a traditional fruit cake made by boiling dried fruits with butter, sugar, and spices before mixing them with flour and eggs and baking to perfection. This method ensures that the cake is moist and packed with rich flavor. It’s often served plain or with a light dusting of icing sugar and can be stored for a longer time than other cakes.

Other Popular Recipes

• Nigella Courgette And Lime Cake
• Hairy Bikers Pineapple Upside Down Cake
• Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: Boiling the fruits enhances their flavor and ensures they stay moist.
• Easy to Make: The boiling method is simple and results in a cake that’s quick to prepare.
• Perfect for Holidays: It’s a great cake to make for festive occasions like Christmas or family gatherings.
• Long Shelf Life: The cake keeps well, making it a great option for baking ahead of time.
• Full of Texture: The combination of dried fruits and spices gives the cake a delightful texture and warmth.

Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake

• Mixed dried fruits (500g): A mixture of raisins, sultanas, currants, and chopped mixed peel adds flavor and texture.
• Butter (175g): Provides richness and moisture to the cake.
• Brown sugar (200g): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Water (300ml): Helps to soften and plump the dried fruits.
• Plain flour (275g): Forms the base of the cake batter.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise and become light.
• Mixed spice (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Eggs (2 large, beaten): Bind the ingredients together.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
• Bicarbonate of soda (½ teaspoon): Helps create a lighter texture.
• Icing sugar (optional, for dusting): To lightly dust the top of the cake.

Equipment

• Large saucepan: For boiling the fruit mixture.
• Mixing bowls: To combine the dry and wet ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring the batter.
• 20cm round cake tin: For baking the cake.
• Parchment paper: To line the cake tin.
• Spatula: To smooth the cake batter in the tin.

Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin

• Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) or 325°F. Grease and line a 20cm round cake tin with parchment paper.

Step 2: Boil the Fruit Mixture

• In a large saucepan, combine the mixed dried fruits, butter, brown sugar, and water. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a mixing bowl, sift together the plain flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and mixed spice. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Once the fruit mixture has cooled, stir in the beaten eggs and vanilla extract.
• Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, using a spatula or wooden spoon, until well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Transfer to the Cake Tin

• Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

• Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
• If the top of the cake starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Dust the top with icing sugar if desired before serving.

What Goes Well With Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake

• Clotted Cream: A generous dollop of clotted cream adds richness and luxury to the cake.
• Cheddar Cheese: For a traditional twist, serve with a slice of cheddar for a sweet and savory combination.
• Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream pairs well with the rich fruit flavors.
• Tea or Coffee: A hot cup of tea or coffee is the perfect accompaniment to balance the sweetness.
• Butter: Serve with a smear of butter for a more traditional touch.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake

• Cool the Fruit Mixture: Make sure the boiled fruit mixture cools down before adding the eggs to prevent them from scrambling.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a skewer into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If the top is browning too quickly, cover with foil.
• Soak the Fruit: If you have time, soak the dried fruits overnight in a little tea or rum to make the cake even more flavorful.
• Rest the Cake: Let the cake rest for at least a day before cutting. This allows the flavors to develop further.
• Store Well: This cake stores well, so wrap it tightly in cling film to keep it fresh for several days.

Easy Variations of Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake

• Add Nuts: Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch and texture.
• Use Spiced Rum: Replace some of the water with spiced rum to give the cake a deeper, more festive flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of plain flour for a gluten-free cake.
• Add Citrus: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the boiled fruit mixture for a fresh, zesty twist.
• Cherry Twist: Add glacé cherries to the fruit mix for a pop of color and extra sweetness.

Best Practices to Store Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake

• Wrap and Store: Once fully cooled, wrap the cake tightly in cling film and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Refrigerate for Longer Shelf Life: For longer storage, place the wrapped cake in the fridge, where it will keep for up to 2 weeks.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze the boiled fruit cake by wrapping it in cling film and foil. It will be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Best Practices to Reheat Hairy Bikers’ Boiled Fruit Cake

• Microwave: Heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on medium heat for a quick reheat.
• Oven Reheat: Warm slices in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5-10 minutes to refresh the cake.

How Can I Make Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake Healthier?

• Reduce the Sugar: You can cut down on the sugar by 50g without affecting the cake’s texture.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the plain flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber and a denser texture.
• Substitute Butter: Use a plant-based butter or a lower-fat option to reduce the fat content.
• Add More Fruit: Increase the amount of dried fruits or add some grated apple or carrot for extra natural sweetness and fiber.
• Lower Fat Option: Reduce the butter by half and replace it with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat alternative.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 25g

FAQs

How do you keep fruit from sinking in a boiled fruit cake?

To keep the fruit from sinking into a boiled fruit cake, toss the dried fruits in a little bit of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps the fruit stay suspended throughout the cake as it bakes. Also, ensure the batter is not too thin, as a thicker batter will help support the fruit.

Why did my boiled fruit cake crack?

A boiled fruit cake may crack if the oven temperature is too high or if the cake is placed too high in the oven. Baking at a lower, more even temperature helps the cake rise slowly and prevents cracking on the surface.

Why does my boiled fruit cake crumble when cut?

Boiled fruit cake may crumble when cut if it has been overbaked, causing it to dry out. It’s important to check the cake with a skewer before taking it out of the oven. If the skewer comes out clean, remove the cake to avoid overcooking. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to help maintain its structure.

Can you freeze Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake?

Yes, Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake can be frozen. Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in cling film and then in foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why is my boiled fruit cake dry?

Boiled fruit cake can become dry if it’s overbaked or if there isn’t enough liquid in the batter. To avoid dryness, ensure that the fruit mixture is boiled properly, the cake is baked at the correct temperature, and check for doneness with a skewer to avoid overbaking.

How long can you store boiled fruit cake?

Boiled fruit cake can be stored at room temperature, wrapped in cling film, for up to a week. If refrigerated, it can last up to 2 weeks, and if frozen, it can be kept for up to 3 months.

What is the best way to keep boiled fruit cake moist?

To keep boiled fruit cake moist, ensure that you don’t overbake it. Wrapping the cake in cling film once it’s cooled also helps retain moisture. Additionally, storing the cake in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge can help it stay fresh longer.

Final Words

The Hairy Bikers Boiled Fruit Cake is a rich, flavorful cake that is perfect for those who love the traditional taste of fruitcake. Its moist texture, warm spices, and dense fruit content make it a wonderful treat for any occasion, especially during festive seasons. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a delicious cake that can be made ahead and enjoyed for days.

More By British Baking Recipes

• Mary Berry Lemon Courgette Cake
• Mary Berry Pineapple Fruit Cake
• Nigella Rhubarb Ice Cream

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