Nigella Mincemeat Cake

Delve into the delightful world of baking with the Nigella Mincemeat Cake, a recipe that celebrates the rich flavors of the festive season. This cake is a marvelous way to utilize leftover mincemeat, transforming it into a moist, aromatic dessert that perfectly complements a cup of tea or a glass of mulled wine. The original recipe for this enticing cake comes from Mary Berry, a name synonymous with British baking excellence. Her Mincemeat Loaf Cake recipe is a testament to her culinary expertise, offering a straightforward method to create a cake that's both delicious and visually appealing.

Ingredients for the Nigella Mincemeat Cake

For those ready to embark on this baking journey, here's what you'll need:

• Soft butter: 150g, to ensure your cake has a tender, moist texture.
• Mincemeat: 225g, the star ingredient that brings a deep, rich flavor.
• Soft light brown sugar: 150g, adding a hint of caramel.
• Self-raising flour: 225g, for a perfectly risen cake.
• Medium eggs: 2, to bind all the ingredients together harmoniously.
• Glace cherries: 100g, for a sweet, chewy texture.
• Sultanas: 100g, adding a hint of fruitiness.
• Milk: 2 tablespoons (optional), to achieve a less crumbly cake.
• Blanched almonds or halved glace cherries for decoration: 50g, adding a beautiful finishing touch​​.

Preparation Instructions

The preparation process is as simple as it is satisfying:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to the right temperature and preparing your loaf tins with greasing and lining.
2. Combine all ingredients (except for the decoration) in a large mixing bowl, beating them into a smooth batter.
3. Pour the mixture into your loaf tins, decorate as desired, and bake until golden and cooked through.
4. Allow cooling before slicing to enjoy the cake's full flavor and texture​​.

Storage and Reheating

This cake keeps well for about 4-5 days if stored in an airtight container, wrapped in cling film or tin foil to prevent drying out. It can also be frozen for up to 4 months, making it a great make-ahead dessert option for the holiday season​​.

Nutritional Information

While the exact nutritional values can vary, a typical serving contains a balance of calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Be mindful of the sugar and fat content, indicative of its rich flavor profile​​.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free alternative and ensuring the mincemeat is gluten-free​​.
• Can I use whole almonds instead of flakes for decoration? Yes, whole almonds can be used, or they can be omitted according to preference​​.

Mary Berry's Mincemeat Loaf Cake recipe is a splendid choice for anyone looking to enjoy the festive flavors of mincemeat in a new, delightful form. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is bound to please with its simplicity and delicious outcome.

For more details on this recipe and others like it, you're encouraged to explore Mary Berry's vast collection of baking recipes. Her expertise and straightforward approach to baking have inspired countless individuals to discover the joys of homemade desserts.