Ingredients and Weight:
- 1kg mixed dried fruits (e.g., apricots, raisins, prunes)
- 2 cups (450g) sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup (250ml) vegetable oil
- 2 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp mixed spice
- A few strips of orange peel (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 1 hour
- Cooking Time: 2 hours
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Soak the dried fruits in warm water for about 30 minutes to plump them up.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (170°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the soaked fruits, sugar, and oil. Mix well.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and mixed spice into the fruit mixture and stir until well combined.
- Add the orange peel (if using) and mix gently.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased and lined baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for another hour until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving - assuming 8 equal portions)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Protein: 6g
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and sweet fruit flavor
- Moist and dense texture
- Perfect for winter or festive occasions
User Comments:
- "This fruitcake is amazing! So moist and full of flavor." - John Doe, New York
- "The perfect balance of sweet and spice, this fruitcake is a great choice for a special occasion." - Jane Smith, California
- "Love the addition of orange peel, gives it a unique flavor." - Michael Johnson, Texas
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Soaking the dried fruits helps to plump them up and makes them easier to digest.
- Ensure the baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking.
- Check the fruitcake periodically during baking to ensure it doesn't over-brown. Adjust the oven temperature if necessary.
