By Neff.
A fruity cake full of warming flavours, perfect for a party during the colder months or to be enjoyed as an evening dessert.
Serves: 15
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2½ hours
Difficulty: 2 out of 5
Ingredients
- 340g butter
- 340g soft dark brown sugar
- 400g plain flour
- 1 tsp mixed spice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 340g currants
- 225g sultanas
- 225g raisins
- 170g glace cherries, chopped
- 110g mixed peel
- 110g almonds, chopped
- 4 tbsps brandy
- 6 eggs
- zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp black treacle (optional)
Method
- Grease and line a cake tin
- Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy
- Gradually addd the eggs and fold in the sieved flour with a metal spoon
- Add the fruit and brandy and mix well
- If the mixture is very pale, add some treacle until a light coffee colour is achieved
- Put the mixture into the prepared tin and form a slight hollow in the centre
- Place in oven at 140°C for 2½ hours CircoTherm® or 150°C Top and Bottom Heat
- To store: before icing the cake, wrap tightly in foil
- Top Tip: for a richer result, soak the fruit in brandy for 2-3 days before making the cake – simply cover with cling film and stir each day
Presentation
- Display on favourite cake stand, evenly sliced
