Ingredients and Weight:
- 8oz mixed dried fruits (such as apricots, dates, prunes, etc.)
- 5oz softened unsalted butter
- 3oz sugar
- 3oz all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder (optional)
- 1 small package chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes at 350°F (175°C)
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Soak the dried fruits in warm water for about 20 minutes to rehydrate them. Then drain the excess water.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the flour and baking powder and mix until just combined.
- Stir in the rehydrated fruits, vanilla extract, and cinnamon powder (if using).
- Lastly, add the chocolate chips or chunks (if using) and mix gently.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking pan and bake for 45-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the fruitcake to cool before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
Calories: 300-350, Fat: 18g, Carbohydrates: 40g, Protein: 4g, Fiber: 3g
(Note: The nutritional information may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and moist texture due to the combination of dried fruits and chocolate.
- Deep and complex flavor with notes of vanilla and cinnamon.
- Ideal as a dessert or even as a snack due to its rich flavor and texture.
User Comments:
- "This is an excellent fruitcake recipe! The combination of flavors is perfect." - John Doe, New York
- "The chocolate chunks added a great touch to this fruitcake. It was delicious!" - Jane Smith, California
- "I love how easy this recipe is to make. It's perfect for a weekend baking session with my family." - Michael Johnson, Texas
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to use softened butter for best results in creaming with the sugar.
- Rehydrate the dried fruits before baking to ensure they are plump and juicy.
- Adjust the baking time according to your oven's temperature and the color of the fruitcake to ensure it is cooked through but not overbaked.