The Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake is a moist and flavorful treat, packed with dried fruits and spices. This air fryer adaptation retains all the deliciousness of the original recipe while cutting down on baking time. Perfect for any occasion, this boiled fruit cake is easy to prepare and delivers a rich, traditional flavor.
What is Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake?
Mary Berry’s boiled fruit cake is a classic dessert made by boiling dried fruits with butter, sugar, and liquid, then combining them with flour, spices, and eggs to create a dense, moist cake. This air fryer version ensures even baking and quicker preparation, making it a modern twist on a timeless recipe.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Quick and easy: The air fryer reduces baking time significantly.
- Rich and moist: Perfect texture with every slice.
- Versatile: Ideal for teatime, celebrations, or gifting.
- No oven required: Great for small kitchens or quick bakes.
- Customizable: Add your favorite dried fruits or spices.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake in Air Fryer
- Mixed dried fruits (500g): A combination of raisins, sultanas, and currants.
- Brown sugar (200g): Adds richness and depth.
- Butter (200g): Unsalted, for moisture and flavor.
- Water (250ml): For boiling the fruits.
- Self-raising flour (300g): Provides structure and lightness.
- Ground mixed spice (1 teaspoon): For warmth and flavor.
- Eggs (2 large): Lightly beaten, to bind the mixture.
- Orange zest (1 tablespoon): Adds a citrusy freshness.
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan: To boil the fruit mixture.
- Mixing bowl: Combine the batter.
- Air fryer-safe cake tin: Ensure it fits your air fryer basket.
- Parchment paper: For lining the cake tin.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake in Air Fryer
Step 1: Prepare the fruit mixture
- In a medium saucepan, combine the mixed dried fruits, brown sugar, butter, and water.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let it cool for 20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the batter
- In a mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour and ground mixed spice.
- Add the cooled fruit mixture to the dry ingredients, followed by the beaten eggs and orange zest. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the air fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 150°C (300°F) for 5 minutes.
- Line an air fryer-safe cake tin with parchment paper.
Step 4: Assemble and bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Place the tin in the air fryer basket and bake for 45–50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 5: Cool and serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve as is, or with a dollop of cream for extra indulgence.
What Goes Well With Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake
- Whipped cream: Adds a touch of luxury.
- Custard: A warm and comforting pairing.
- Tea or coffee: A classic accompaniment.
- Cheddar cheese: For a traditional British twist.
- Lemon glaze: Adds a citrusy sweetness.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake in Air Fryer
- Cool the fruit mixture: Ensure it’s not too hot before mixing to prevent cooking the eggs.
- Line the tin well: Prevents the cake from sticking and ensures even baking.
- Check air fryer size: Use a tin that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket.
- Adjust cooking time: If your air fryer runs hot, reduce the temperature slightly to avoid over-browning.
- Store properly: Wrap in parchment paper and store in an airtight container to retain moisture.
Easy Variations of Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake
- Nut addition: Add chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for crunch.
- Alcohol infusion: Replace some of the water with brandy or rum for a festive flavor.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free self-raising flour.
- Spiced twist: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Tropical flavor: Incorporate dried pineapple or mango for a fruity twist.
Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freeze for later: Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Keep airtight: Prevents the cake from drying out and preserves its flavor.
Nutrition Value (per slice)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Final Words
The Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake in Air Fryer is a delightful way to enjoy a timeless classic with the convenience of modern technology. Its moist texture, rich flavor, and quick preparation make it a perfect choice for bakers of all levels. Ready to try this easy yet impressive dessert?
Can I use different dried fruits for boiled fruit cake?
Yes, you can customize the recipe with your favorite dried fruits, such as apricots, cherries, or cranberries, to add variety to the flavor and texture.
How do I prevent the fruit cake from burning in the air fryer?
To avoid burning, line the cake tin with parchment paper and ensure your air fryer is preheated to the correct temperature. You can also cover the top of the cake with foil if it browns too quickly.
Can I make this boiled fruit cake without self-raising flour?
Yes, you can substitute self-raising flour with plain flour and add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder for every 150g of flour.
How long does boiled fruit cake stay fresh?
Boiled fruit cake can stay fresh for up to a week if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 3 months and thaw before serving. Get baking and enjoy every bite of this traditional treat!
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Mary Berry Boiled Fruit Cake in Air Fryer Recipe
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 45
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Boiling and Air Frying
- Cuisine: British
Description
- Mixed dried fruits (500g): A combination of raisins, sultanas, and currants.
- Brown sugar (200g): Adds richness and depth.
- Butter (200g): Unsalted, for moisture and flavor.
- Water (250ml): For boiling the fruits.
- Self-raising flour (300g): Provides structure and lightness.
- Ground mixed spice (1 teaspoon): For warmth and flavor.
- Eggs (2 large): Lightly beaten, to bind the mixture.
- Orange zest (1 tablespoon): Adds a citrusy freshness.
Ingredients
- Mixed dried fruits (500g): A combination of raisins, sultanas, and currants.
- Brown sugar (200g): Adds richness and depth.
- Butter (200g): Unsalted, for moisture and flavor.
- Water (250ml): For boiling the fruits.
- Self-raising flour (300g): Provides structure and lightness.
- Ground mixed spice (1 teaspoon): For warmth and flavor.
- Eggs (2 large): Lightly beaten, to bind the mixture.
- Orange zest (1 tablespoon): Adds a citrusy freshness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the fruit mixture
-
- In a medium saucepan, combine the mixed dried fruits, brown sugar, butter, and water.
-
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil.
-
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let it cool for 20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the batter
-
- In a mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour and ground mixed spice.
-
- Add the cooled fruit mixture to the dry ingredients, followed by the beaten eggs and orange zest. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the air fryer
-
- Preheat your air fryer to 150°C (300°F) for 5 minutes.
-
- Line an air fryer-safe cake tin with parchment paper.
Step 4: Assemble and bake
-
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
-
- Place the tin in the air fryer basket and bake for 45–50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 5: Cool and serve
-
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
-
- Slice and serve as is, or with a dollop of cream for extra indulgence.
