With the festive season approaching, it's time to start thinking about Christmas cakes. If you're worried that you've left it too late to make and feed a traditional fruit cake, fear not! You can still enjoy a delicious show-stopping end to your meal by making a boiled Christmas cake. This method allows you to skip the lengthy soaking and maturing process usually associated with fruit cakes, making it perfect for last-minute bakers.
Here's a simple recipe to help you make a boiled Christmas cake without feeling rushed:
Last Minute Christmas Cake
Makes - 1
Total Time - 1 Hour 45 Minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup of butter
- 1 cup of water
- 2 cups of mixed dried fruit (such as raisins, sultanas, and currants)
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of mixed spice
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup of brandy (optional)
METHOD:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the butter, water, mixed dried fruit, brown sugar, mixed spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool for 15-20 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake tin.
3. Sift the flour and baking soda together in a separate bowl.
4. Once the fruit mixture has cooled, stir in the flour mixture until well combined. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean.
7. If desired, you can brush the top of the cake with brandy while it's still warm.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, your boiled Christmas cake is ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it as is or decorate it with marzipan, icing and festive decorations.
This boiled Christmas cake is a quick and easy alternative to traditional fruit cakes, and it's perfect for those who haven't had the chance to start their Christmas baking early. So, don't worry if you feel like you've left it too late – you can still enjoy a delicious Christmas cake with this simple recipe. Happy baking and happy holidays!
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