Sweet bread with dried fruits
Dried Fruit Cake – A Traditional Delight
The cake is more than just a dessert; it is a symbol of holidays, family gatherings, and joy. With its fluffy texture, inviting taste, and distinctive aroma, the dried fruit cake is a perfect choice for any special occasion. I will guide you step by step through the process of making this treat, sharing useful tips and secrets for a perfect result.
Total preparation time: 2 hours
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Servings: 10-12
Ingredients
- 2 eggs (preferably from free-range chickens)
- 100 g raisins
- 50 g dried plums
- 50 g cranberries
- 2 tablespoons rum essence
- 750 g all-purpose flour
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 100 g sugar
- 250 ml lukewarm milk
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- A pinch of salt
- Grated zest of one lemon
- Butter for greasing the pan and the cake
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preparing the Dried Fruits
Start by washing the dried fruits – the raisins, plums, and cranberries – thoroughly with lukewarm water. This will help them absorb moisture and become juicier during baking. After washing, add 2 tablespoons of rum. This will not only enhance the flavor of the fruits but also add a touch of richness to the cake.
Step 2: Preparing the Yeast Mixture
In a tall bowl, sift the flour to aerate it and remove any impurities. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the crumbled yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Pour in the lukewarm milk (not hot, as it will kill the yeast) and mix gently. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the yeast mixture rise for 10-15 minutes in a warm place.
Step 3: Kneading the Dough
Once the yeast mixture has risen, add the remaining sugar, soft butter, eggs, a pinch of salt, and the grated lemon zest. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy texture. Let the dough rise for 30-40 minutes, covered with a towel, until it doubles in volume.
Step 4: Adding the Dried Fruits
After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured work surface. Knead it again and roll it out into a rectangular shape. Sprinkle the dried fruits on top. If you prefer, you can incorporate them into the dough during kneading. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log.
Step 5: Cooling and Baking
Grease a 30 cm loaf pan with butter. Place the cake in the pan, brush the top with soft butter, and let it rise for another 10 minutes. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the cake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness using a toothpick – if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Practical Tips
1. Ingredients at room temperature: Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature a few hours before starting. This will help the yeast work more effectively.
2. Choose fresh eggs: Use home-raised eggs for a cake with a beautiful color and richer taste.
3. Vary the fruits: You can also add other dried fruits, such as apricots or figs, to diversify the flavors.
4. Serving: The cake is delicious warm, but it’s equally tasty cold. Try slicing it and serving it with a cup of fragrant tea or a glass of sweet wine.
Nutritional Benefits
Dried fruit cake is an excellent source of carbohydrates and antioxidants due to the dried fruits. These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which contribute to healthy digestion. However, consume it in moderation, considering its sugar and calorie content.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast. Replace the fresh yeast with about 7 g of dry yeast and skip the activation step.
2. How can I keep the cake fresh longer? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.
3. Can I use plant-based milk? Absolutely! Almond or soy milk is an excellent alternative for a vegan version.
Conclusion
Dried fruit cake is a traditional recipe filled with warmth and memories. Try making it this week and treat your family or friends to an unforgettable dessert. With every bite, you will bring smiles and joy into the homes of your loved ones. So, get moving, prepare the ingredients, and let the delicious aromas of freshly baked cake carry you away!
Ingredients: 2 eggs, 100 g raisins, 50 g dried plums, 50 g cranberries, 2 tablespoons rum essence, 750 g type 000 flour, 25 g yeast, 100 g sugar, 250 ml warm milk, 100 g butter at room temperature, a pinch of salt, grated zest of one lemon, butter for greasing the tray and the cake.
