Who knew that creating a delicious fruit cake could be so simple? With just three ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a dessert that’s sure to impress. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you’re craving something sweet without the fuss.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simplicity at its best: Only three ingredients mean less prep and cleanup.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite fruits or nuts.
- Quick to make: From mixing to baking, it’s ready in no time.
- Deliciously moist: The combination of ingredients ensures a moist cake every time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (chopped if large)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- 8-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This little trick saves you from a potential cake-stuck-to-the-pan disaster.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and mixed dried fruits. Stir them together until the fruits are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This ensures every bite is fruity and delicious.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredient
Pour the sweetened condensed milk into the bowl. Mix everything together until you have a thick, sticky batter. If it seems too thick, resist the urge to add liquid; the batter is supposed to be dense.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience-testing step ensures your cake doesn’t fall apart when you slice it.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more decadent cake, consider brushing the top with a little melted butter as soon as it comes out of the oven. This adds a lovely sheen and extra flavor. If you’re using particularly large pieces of dried fruit, chopping them into smaller pieces ensures a more uniform texture in the cake. And for those who love a bit of crunch, adding a handful of chopped nuts to the batter can introduce a delightful contrast to the soft cake.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts for added crunch.
- Spiced Version: Incorporate 1 tsp of mixed spice or cinnamon for a warm flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a fresh, zesty note.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?
Using fresh fruit is not recommended for this recipe as the additional moisture can affect the cake’s texture. Dried fruits provide the right balance of sweetness and chewiness without making the cake soggy.
How should I store the cake?
This cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free self-rising flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Summary
This 3-ingredient fruit cake is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a dessert that’s both delicious and impressive. Perfect for any occasion or just because.