Delight in Every Bite with Gluten-Free Fruit Cake 🍰🍇
Introduction: Embrace the warmth and nostalgia of a classic fruit cake with a gluten-free twist! Prepare to embark on a journey of flavor and texture as we dive into the realm of Gluten-Free Fruit Cake. Packed with a medley of dried fruits, aromatic spices, and a hint of brandy, this delightful treat is perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- 200g unsalted butter, softened
- 200g light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 200g gluten-free plain flour blend
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp xanthan gum
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 50g ground almonds
- 100g mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants)
- 50g glace cherries, halved
- 50g mixed peel
- 50g dried apricots, chopped
- 2 tbsp brandy (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparing the Loaf Tin Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) and grease and line a 900g loaf tin with baking parchment, ensuring easy removal of the fruit cake once baked to perfection.
Step 2: Creaming Butter and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and light brown sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, setting the stage for a moist and flavorful cake.
Step 3: Incorporating Eggs and Flavorings Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, infusing the batter with a hint of sweetness and richness.
Step 4: Sifting and Mixing Dry Ingredients Sift in the gluten-free flour, baking powder, xanthan gum, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, creating a fragrant blend of spices that will elevate the flavor profile of our fruit cake. Add the ground almonds for an extra layer of texture and nuttiness.
Step 5: Adding Fruits and Brandy (Optional) Mix until all the ingredients are well combined, then fold in the mixed dried fruit, glace cherries, mixed peel, and chopped dried apricots, creating a symphony of colors and flavors in every bite. For an indulgent touch, stir in the brandy until evenly distributed throughout the batter, adding a subtle warmth to the final cake.
Step 6: Baking to Perfection Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake. Slide the tin into the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that the cake is perfectly baked and ready to be enjoyed.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving Remove the fruit cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into generous portions and savor every moist, flavorful bite of this delightful Gluten-Free Fruit Cake.
Conclusion: With its rich flavor, tender crumb, and irresistible aroma, Gluten-Free Fruit Cake is sure to become a favorite among gluten-sensitive and gluten-loving alike. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea on a cozy afternoon or shared with loved ones during festive celebrations, this cake is a true delight for the senses. So, indulge in a slice (or two) and savor the simple pleasures of homemade baking at its finest.