Mary Berry Fruit Cake Loaf Recipe: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Treat

Mary Berry's Fruit Cake Loaf is a classic treat that embodies the essence of traditional British baking. Renowned for its rich flavors and moist texture, this loaf is a testament to Mary Berry's expertise in creating delightful desserts that are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon teas to festive celebrations.

Cultural or Historical Context The fruit cake has long been a staple in British cuisine, known for its dense, sweet, and rich characteristics, often laced with spices and brimming with dried fruits and nuts. Mary Berry, a respected figure in the culinary world, brings her own twist to this classic, making it accessible for home bakers everywhere.

Ingredients for Mary Berry Fruit Cake Loaf

• Unsalted butter and light brown sugar for a creamy base.
• Large eggs to bind the mixture.
• Self-raising flour and baking powder for a perfect rise.
• A rich mix of dried fruits such as raisins, currants, sultanas, cherries, and apricots for sweetness and texture.
• Chopped nuts like almonds and walnuts for a crunchy contrast.
• Mixed spice and orange zest for aromatic warmth.
• Milk to adjust the batter's consistency.

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your loaf tin with parchment paper.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then gradually mix in beaten eggs.
3. Sift together flour, baking powder, and mixed spice, folding them into the wet mixture without overmixing.
4. Stir in the dried fruits, nuts, and orange zest, ensuring even distribution.
5. Pour the batter into the tin, smoothing the top and creating a slight dip in the center for even rising.
6. Bake until golden and firm, then cool on a wire rack before serving.

Storage and Reheating This loaf can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week, refrigerated for two weeks, or frozen for a month. For reheating, briefly warm slices in the microwave or wrap in foil and heat in the oven.

Nutritional Information Each slice (based on 14 slices per loaf) approximately contains 462 calories, with 20g of fat, 64g of carbohydrates, and 6g of protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend and ensuring other ingredients are gluten-free.
• How can I make the cake moister? Avoid overbaking, consider adding applesauce for moisture, or use brown sugar.
• Can I freeze the cake with frosting? Yes, though it's recommended to freeze them separately for best texture.

Mary Berry's Fruit Cake Loaf is a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for any baker looking to create a timeless treat. The combination of dried fruits, nuts, and aromatic spices ensures that each bite is a burst of flavor, making it a beloved recipe for many​​​​.