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Mary Berry Fruit Cake Loaf Recipe

Mary Berry Fruit Cake Loaf
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Mary Berry’s Fruit Cake Loaf is a traditional fruit cake made with a mixture of dried fruits, such as raisins, currants, and sultanas, baked into a soft, moist loaf. The cake is lightly spiced and has a lovely sweetness from the fruits. This loaf is easy to make and can be enjoyed on its own or with butter for extra indulgence. It’s also ideal for special occasions or as a festive treat.

Ingredients

  • Self-raising flour (225g): The base of the cake, provides structure and lift.
  • Butter (175g, softened): Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
  • Light brown sugar (175g): Sweetens the cake and complements the flavor of the dried fruit.
  • Mixed dried fruit (350g): A combination of raisins, currants, and sultanas for a rich, fruity texture.
  • Eggs (3 large): Binds the ingredients and gives the cake structure.
  • Milk (4 tablespoons): Adds moisture to the batter.
  • Mixed spice (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and enhances the flavor of the fruit.
  • Grated zest of 1 lemon: Adds a hint of citrus flavor for balance.
  • Baking paper: For lining the loaf tin.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) or 325°F. Grease and line a 900g (2lb) loaf tin with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dried Fruits

  • Measure out your mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, and sultanas) and set them aside. You can also soak the dried fruit in a little warm water or tea for about 30 minutes to plump them up (optional). Drain the fruit if soaked.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift the self-raising flour and mix spice together. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the creamed butter and sugar mixture.

Step 6: Add the Milk and Fruit

  • Stir in the milk, mixed dried fruit, and lemon zest, mixing gently until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 7: Transfer to the Loaf Tin

  • Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

  • Place the loaf tin in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

  • Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Serve

  • Once fully cooled, slice and serve the fruit cake loaf on its own or with butter.

Find it online: https://britishbakingrecipes.co.uk/mary-berry-fruit-cake-loaf-recipe/