Delia Smith Dundee Cake Recipe

Delving into the heart of British baking, we explore the cherished Delia Smith Dundee Cake Recipe, a testament to the rich culinary tradition of the United Kingdom. This cake stands out for its light, crumbly texture contrasted with the richness of fruits and nuts, offering a delightful alternative to the denser Christmas cakes commonly found during the festive season.

Brief Description and Historical Context The Dundee Cake is a quintessential Scottish fruit cake that boasts a distinctive decoration of blanched almonds on its surface. Unlike its richer counterparts, this cake is celebrated for its lighter texture and is deeply embedded in Scottish culinary traditions. Delia Smith, a respected authority in British cooking, offers her take on this traditional cake, ensuring a balance of flavors that resonate with both history and the palate.

Ingredients for the Dundee Cake Recipe

• 225g plain flour
• 1 level teaspoon baking powder
• 150g spreadable butter
• 150g golden caster sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 dessertspoon milk (if needed)
• Fruits and nuts including 175g currants, 175g sultanas, 50g glacé cherries (halved), 50g mixed candied peel (finely chopped), and 2 level tablespoons ground almonds
• For the topping: 60g whole blanched almonds
• Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon for added fragrance

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by sifting the flour and baking powder into a mixing bowl to aerate the flour.
2. Add butter, caster sugar, and eggs, whisking until smooth. If the mixture is too dry, incorporate a dessertspoon of milk.
3. Fold in the fruits, mixed peel, ground almonds, and citrus zests before spooning the mixture into a prepared cake tin.
4. Decorate the surface with blanched almonds, arranged in concentric circles, then bake as directed until firm and springy to the touch​​.

Storage and Reheating Dundee Cake, unlike richer fruitcakes, does not keep as long. It's best consumed within a week if stored in an airtight container. However, for longer preservation, feeding the cake with whiskey can extend its life to a few weeks. Freezing is recommended for keeping it beyond this period​​​​.

Nutritional Information This cake is rich in carbs and sugars due to its fruit and sugar content, providing energy. The nuts add a good source of protein and healthy fats. Detailed nutritional breakdowns can be accessed through specialized cooking and health websites.

FAQ about the Dundee Cake Recipe

• Can I substitute some fruits? Yes, but stick to the original weight for balance.
• How long does it keep? Ideally, up to a week in an airtight tin, a few weeks if fed with whiskey, or longer when frozen.
• Can it be made in different tin sizes? Yes, adjustments in ingredient proportions and baking times are necessary.

In essence, Delia Smith's Dundee Cake is a celebration of traditional baking, marrying the simplicity of ingredients with the richness of flavor. Whether for a festive occasion or a cozy tea time, this cake promises delight in every slice.

Original recipe by Delia Smith.