The Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake is a traditional Scottish fruitcake that’s lighter than most fruitcakes, with a lovely citrusy flavor and a beautiful almond topping. Packed with currants, sultanas, and mixed peel, and featuring a decorative arrangement of blanched almonds, this cake is a perfect choice for festive occasions or afternoon tea. Follow this guide for a classic Dundee Cake with all the tips and details you need.
What Is Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake?
The Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake is their take on the traditional Scottish Dundee Cake, enhanced with their signature touch. While it stays true to the classic recipe with its light texture and citrus zest, the Hairy Bikers version brings a richer depth of flavor through its careful blend of dried fruits, including currants, sultanas, and mixed peel. True to the original, the Hairy Bikers’ Dundee Cake is topped with a circular pattern of whole almonds, making it both visually appealing and delicious
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Rich in Flavor: The blend of dried fruits and citrus zest creates a balanced and deliciously fruity cake.
- Classic Scottish Tradition: A piece of Scottish heritage in every bite.
- Beautiful Presentation: The almond-topped design makes it ideal for sharing.
- Perfect Texture: Moist and tender with a light crumb.
- Versatile: Works well for holiday gatherings, as a gift, or for everyday indulgence.
Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake
Dry Ingredients
- 225g self-raising flour – For a light and tender crumb.
- 50g ground almonds – Adds richness and keeps the cake moist.
Fruits and Nuts
- 175g currants – Provides a fruity sweetness.
- 175g sultanas – Adds extra texture and flavor.
- 50g mixed peel – A hint of citrus for brightness.
- 50g blanched almonds – Used for the decorative topping.
Other Ingredients
- 175g butter (softened) – Creates a moist, rich base.
- 175g caster sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with creaming.
- 3 large eggs – Helps bind and create structure in the cake.
- Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon – Adds a fresh citrusy aroma.
- 1 tablespoon milk – Optional, to adjust the batter consistency.
Equipment Needed
- 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin – Perfect for a Dundee Cake’s traditional shape.
- Mixing bowls – For mixing wet and dry ingredients.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – To cream butter and sugar.
- Wire rack – For cooling the cake after baking.
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Tin and Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Grease a 20cm round cake tin and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together using an electric mixer or hand whisk. Beat until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which takes about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Citrus Zest
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to prevent curdling. Then, fold in the zest of the orange and lemon for a fragrant, citrusy flavor.
Step 4: Fold in Ground Almonds and Flour
Stir in the ground almonds, followed by the self-raising flour. Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which helps keep the cake light.
Step 5: Add Dried Fruits and Peel
Gently fold in the currants, sultanas, and mixed peel. Be sure to distribute them evenly for a consistent flavor throughout the cake.
Step 6: Adjust Batter with Milk (If Needed)
If the batter is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to adjust the consistency. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
Step 7: Transfer to Cake Tin and Arrange Almonds
Spoon the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the surface with a spatula. Arrange the blanched almonds on top in concentric circles for the traditional Dundee Cake look.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 2-2.5 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Once baked, let the cake cool in the tin for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
What Goes Well with Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake
- A Hot Cup of Tea: The perfect pairing for a traditional Scottish treat.
- Whipped Cream: Adds a touch of lightness and complements the rich flavors.
- Fresh Berries: For a fresh, tangy contrast.
- Vanilla Custard: A warm custard pairs beautifully with a comforting dessert.
- Dark Chocolate: Adds a touch of bitterness to balance the cake’s sweetness.
- Clotted Cream: For an indulgent, traditional British touch.
- Fruit Compote: Adds moisture and extra fruity flavor.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Cream Thoroughly: Creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy ensures a light texture.
- Arrange Almonds Carefully: Place the almonds evenly on top for a beautiful look.
- Bake Slowly: Slow baking at a low temperature keeps the cake moist.
- Cover if Necessary: Use foil if the top browns too fast.
- Allow to Cool Fully: Cooling completely enhances the flavor and texture.
- Store Properly: Wrap in foil and store in an airtight container for the best freshness.
Easy Variations of Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake
- Add Dried Cranberries: Swap some currants for cranberries for a tangy twist.
- Spice It Up: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, seasonal flavors.
- Use Glazed Cherries: Top with cherries for a colorful variation.
- Try Mixed Nuts: Substitute some almonds with hazelnuts or walnuts for a different texture.
- Add Brandy or Whisky: For a richer, boozy flavor, soak the dried fruits in brandy before mixing in.
Best Practices to Store Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake
- Wrap Well: Wrap in foil or plastic wrap to keep it moist.
- Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Keeps best in a cool spot away from sunlight.
- Use Airtight Containers: Prevents drying and maintains freshness.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: Wrap in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Refrigerate Only If Necessary: If stored for longer, keep in the fridge but let it come to room temperature before serving.
- Avoid Pre-Slicing: Keeps moisture locked in when stored as a whole cake.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
What Makes Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake Different from Other Fruitcakes?
Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake is lighter than traditional fruitcakes and incorporates a bright citrus zest along with a unique topping of whole almonds arranged in a circular pattern. Unlike denser fruitcakes, this version focuses on a balanced blend of dried fruits and ground almonds for a moist texture and a flavor that’s rich yet refreshing.
How Long Does Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake Last?
Properly stored, Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake can last up to a week. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. For longer storage, the cake can be frozen for up to three months if wrapped well.
Can I Freeze Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake?
Yes, Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it at room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Why Are Almonds Used as a Topping on Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake?
The topping of whole almonds arranged in circles is a traditional feature of Dundee Cake, giving it a distinctive appearance and a slight crunch. The Hairy Bikers’ version keeps this traditional decoration, adding both texture and a nutty flavor that complements the citrus and dried fruits in the cake.
Final Words
The Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake is a wonderfully classic Scottish cake with a unique blend of flavors, a moist crumb, and a beautiful almond-topped design.
This cake is a delicious choice for any gathering or afternoon treat and is sure to be a hit with its light texture and festive look. Enjoy the satisfying process of baking this traditional treat and savor each delicious slice with family or friends!
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Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 135
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scottish
Description
The Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake is their take on the traditional Scottish Dundee Cake, enhanced with their signature touch. While it stays true to the classic recipe with its light texture and citrus zest, the Hairy Bikers version brings a richer depth of flavor through its careful blend of dried fruits, including currants, sultanas, and mixed peel. True to the original, the Hairy Bikers’ Dundee Cake is topped with a circular pattern of whole almonds, making it both visually appealing and delicious. This recipe combines authenticity with the Hairy Bikers’ rustic style, resulting in a cake that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 225g self-raising flour – For a light and tender crumb.
- 50g ground almonds – Adds richness and keeps the cake moist.
Fruits and Nuts
- 175g currants – Provides a fruity sweetness.
- 175g sultanas – Adds extra texture and flavor.
- 50g mixed peel – A hint of citrus for brightness.
- 50g blanched almonds – Used for the decorative topping.
Other Ingredients
- 175g butter (softened) – Creates a moist, rich base.
- 175g caster sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with creaming.
- 3 large eggs – Helps bind and create structure in the cake.
- Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon – Adds a fresh citrusy aroma.
- 1 tablespoon milk – Optional, to adjust the batter consistency.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Tin and Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Grease a 20cm round cake tin and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together using an electric mixer or hand whisk. Beat until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which takes about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Citrus Zest
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to prevent curdling. Then, fold in the zest of the orange and lemon for a fragrant, citrusy flavor.
Step 4: Fold in Ground Almonds and Flour
Stir in the ground almonds, followed by the self-raising flour. Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which helps keep the cake light.
Step 5: Add Dried Fruits and Peel
Gently fold in the currants, sultanas, and mixed peel. Be sure to distribute them evenly for a consistent flavor throughout the cake.
Step 6: Adjust Batter with Milk (If Needed)
If the batter is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to adjust the consistency. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
Step 7: Transfer to Cake Tin and Arrange Almonds
Spoon the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the surface with a spatula. Arrange the blanched almonds on top in concentric circles for the traditional Dundee Cake look.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 2-2.5 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Once baked, let the cake cool in the tin for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
