Boiled Fruit Cake 🍒🍰

A rich, moist fruit cake where the dried fruits and butter are boiled together first to intensify flavor and keep the cake super soft.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, chopped dates, cherries)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp cloves (optional)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 3–4 eggs
• ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• 2 tbsp brandy, rum, or orange juice (optional)

Instructions

1. Boil fruits
   • In a saucepan, combine butter, sugar, water, and dried fruits.
   • Cook over low heat for 5–10 minutes until butter melts and fruits are plump.
   • Let cool slightly.
2. Mix dry ingredients
   • In a bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and spices.
3. Combine
   • Beat eggs and add to the warm fruit mixture (not boiling).
   • Gradually fold in flour mixture until smooth.
   • Stir in nuts and optional alcohol.
4. Bake
   • Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
   • Grease and line a loaf or round cake pan.
   • Pour batter into pan.
   • Bake 60–70 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.
5. Cool and store
   • Let cool completely.
   • Wrap in foil and store in an airtight container.
   • Can be aged 1–2 weeks for deeper flavor (optional, brush with brandy occasionally).

Tips:

• Soaking fruits overnight in juice or alcohol makes the cake even more flavorful.
• You can add grated orange or lemon zest for a citrusy aroma.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and browning on edges.