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Boozy fruit cake adorned with dried fruits and nuts, perfect for celebrations

Boozy Fruit Cake

A rich and indulgent fruit cake, generously soaked in your favorite spirits, perfect for holiday celebrations or a decadent treat.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 500 g mixed dried fruit raisins, currants, sultanas
  • 150 ml brandy or rum plus extra for feeding
  • 250 g all-purpose flour
  • 175 g dark brown sugar
  • 200 g unsalted butter
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp molasses
  • 1 tsp mixed spice
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 orange zest from 1
Optional Glaze
  • 2 tbsp apricot jam
  • 1 tbsp extra brandy

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • 9-inch round cake pan
  • parchment paper
  • oven

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine dried fruit and brandy or rum in a bowl, allowing them to soak overnight or for several hours.
  2. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
Making the Cake
  1. Beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  2. Gradually beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, mixed spice, and baking powder.
  4. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually, then stir in the soaked fruit and orange zest.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 2.5-3 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Finishing
  1. Let the cake cool in the pan, then remove and pierce its surface all over; drizzle with extra brandy and wrap tightly.
  2. For an optional glaze, gently heat apricot jam with a tablespoon of brandy, then brush this mixture over the top of the cooled cake.

Notes

For best results, prepare this cake several weeks in advance and 'feed' it with additional spirits periodically. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.