Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry, the renowned British television personality and cookbook author, is widely celebrated for her approachable yet delicious recipes. Among her many popular treats, Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake stands out as a timeless favorite, particularly beloved by those who seek a no-fuss, flavorful alternative to traditional fruitcakes.

This recipe, as the name suggests, simplifies the otherwise intricate process of making a fruitcake. The result is a rich, moist, and beautifully spiced cake packed with dried fruits like raisins, sultanas, and currants, along with a gentle warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg. Unlike the more labor-intensive fruitcake recipes that require soaking the fruits in alcohol for days (or weeks!), Mary’s version offers a quicker method without sacrificing flavor.

The beauty of this easy fruit cake lies in its versatility and ease. It’s the perfect cake to make ahead for a special occasion, such as Christmas, birthdays, or a celebratory tea. It also lends itself well to personal adaptations – whether you prefer a bit more citrus zest or want to add a handful of mixed nuts – Mary Berry’s base recipe allows room for creativity.

Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Butter (225g / 8 oz): The key to a moist, tender cake, butter provides both richness and flavor. It’s important to use softened butter to ensure even mixing.
• Light Brown Sugar (225g / 8 oz): The slight caramel flavor of light brown sugar deepens the cake’s overall taste, giving it a cozy, baked-good feel.
• Self-Raising Flour (225g / 8 oz): This helps the cake rise, contributing to a light and fluffy texture. The self-raising variety already contains baking powder, which simplifies the process.
• Mixed Dried Fruit (400g / 14 oz): A mixture of dried raisins, sultanas, currants, and sometimes a few chopped dates or dried cherries creates the signature sweetness and texture of the cake. You can use a pre-mixed variety or customize the dried fruits according to your preference.
• Eggs (2): Eggs are the binding agent that brings everything together. They also add moisture and structure to the cake.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp): This spice adds a warm, comforting aroma to the cake, making it perfect for the colder months or holiday celebrations.
• Nutmeg (½ tsp): Nutmeg enhances the cake’s depth of flavor, offering a subtle spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the dried fruit.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp): Though you’re using self-raising flour, the addition of a teaspoon of baking powder ensures the cake gets an extra boost, making it light and fluffy.
• Zest of an Orange (optional): The zest adds a fresh citrusy brightness that cuts through the sweetness of the fruit and balances the richness of the cake.
• Ground Almonds (optional, 50g): These provide extra moisture and a bit of extra flavor complexity, though they are optional.
• A pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the fruit and sugar.

Equipment Needed

To make this delightful fruit cake, you won’t need much in the way of specialized equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Mixing Bowls: At least two – one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients. A large bowl for the overall mixing is helpful, too.
2. Electric Mixer or Whisk: An electric mixer is ideal for creaming together the butter and sugar, but a hand whisk will work if you prefer a more hands-on approach.
3. Sieve: Used for sifting the flour and other dry ingredients. This ensures the cake’s texture remains light.
4. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: You’ll need a sturdy spoon to combine everything together, especially when folding in the flour and dried fruits.
5. 9-inch Round Cake Tin: A round tin is the typical choice for this cake, though you can opt for a square tin if you prefer. Make sure to line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
6. Oven: Preheated to 160°C (or 140°C for fan ovens) or 325°F. A reliable oven thermometer can help, as oven temperatures can vary.
7. Wire Rack: For cooling the cake once it’s baked. This helps air circulate around the cake, preventing it from becoming soggy.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (140°C for fan ovens) or 325°F. Line your 9-inch round cake tin with parchment paper, making sure to grease it lightly for extra ease when removing the cake.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or a whisk to cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, ensuring a light and moist cake.
3. Add the eggs: Beat the eggs in one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This will prevent the batter from curdling.
4. Sift the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are well combined and free from any lumps.
5. Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to over-mix. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently incorporate the flour into the batter.
6. Fold in the dried fruit: Gently fold in the dried fruit (and the ground almonds if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the tin: Transfer the mixture into the prepared cake tin. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon or spatula to ensure an even surface.
8. Bake the cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The cake is ready when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover the cake with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.
9. Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips And Tricks

1. Soak the Fruit: For an even richer flavor, consider soaking the dried fruit in orange juice (or even a splash of brandy) overnight. This adds moisture to the fruit, making the cake extra juicy and flavorful.
2. Use a Low Temperature: Fruitcakes can sometimes be tricky to bake because they may burn on the outside before cooking through. Baking at a lower temperature for a longer period helps to ensure the cake is evenly cooked.
3. Add Nuts: If you enjoy the added texture of nuts in your fruitcake, consider adding a handful of chopped almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts to the batter.
4. Check the Cake with a Skewer: If you’re uncertain whether the cake is done, insert a wooden skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your fruitcake is ready.
5. Store for Flavors to Mature: Like many fruitcakes, this cake can improve in flavor after a few days. Wrap it tightly in parchment paper and foil, then store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake is the perfect solution for anyone who loves the classic flavors of a fruitcake but doesn’t want to spend days (or weeks) preparing it. With a handful of simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this cake delivers a moist, flavorful, and slightly spiced treat that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether served at Christmas, as a birthday cake, or during afternoon tea, this easy fruit cake will be a guaranteed hit.

By using Mary Berry’s technique, you can impress friends and family without the need for complicated steps or long preparation times, while still enjoying the rich, comforting flavors of a traditional fruitcake.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake

Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake recipe is a classic British dessert that combines rich fruits, spices, and a hint of warmth from the alcohol-soaked dried fruits. It’s already a crowd-pleaser, but there are numerous ways to add your own personal twist to this beloved recipe. Whether you’re looking to make it a bit more festive, cater to dietary restrictions, or simply try something new, there are plenty of variations to explore.

1. Alcohol-Free Fruit Cake

   For those who prefer an alcohol-free version, you can easily swap out the alcohol (usually rum or brandy) for fruit juice or tea. Apple juice, orange juice, or even cranberry juice can replace the rum, adding a subtle flavor while keeping the cake moist. Steeping dried fruits in freshly brewed tea-such as Earl Grey or a spiced chai-will infuse the cake with a delicate, aromatic essence.

2. Adding Nuts and Seeds

   If you love a bit of crunch, consider incorporating chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts into the fruit cake mix. Not only does this provide texture, but the nuts also enhance the cake’s richness. You can toast the nuts slightly before adding them to intensify their flavor. Additionally, seeds such as pumpkin, sunflower, or even poppy seeds could be added for a delightful twist.

3. Dried Fruits Variety

   While Mary’s original recipe uses a mix of raisins, sultanas, and currants, there’s room to experiment with different dried fruits. For a tropical flair, try adding dried mango, pineapple, or papaya. Apricots, cranberries, or cherries can provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the other fruits. Some people even like to use a combination of dried fruits and fresh fruits to boost the flavor and texture.

4. Spices and Zests

   The recipe already calls for mixed spice, but this is another area where you can truly make it your own. Add a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg to enhance the warmth of the cake. For an extra citrus kick, lemon or orange zest can brighten the overall flavor profile. A splash of vanilla extract or a dash of almond essence would also work wonders to make the flavor more complex.

5. Vegan and Dairy-Free Variations

   To make this fruit cake vegan-friendly, simply replace the butter with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Eggs can be substituted with flax eggs (1 tbsp of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp of water), or for an even more natural option, mashed bananas can help bind the ingredients together while adding a subtle sweetness. Ensure that the dried fruits you choose are not glazed with honey or other non-vegan sweeteners.

6. Glazed Fruit Cake

   For a show-stopping presentation, you can glaze the fruit cake after it’s baked. A simple syrup made of sugar and water, or even a fruit juice reduction, can give the cake a beautiful shiny finish. For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle it with a spiced rum syrup or a splash of citrus juice mixed with powdered sugar.

7. Layered Fruit Cake

   Another fun way to vary the recipe is by baking the cake in layers. If you want to add more decadence, split the batter into two or three round cake pans and bake separate layers. Once cooled, sandwich them together with a layer of marzipan, frosting, or whipped cream. You could even add a touch of fruit preserve or jam between the layers for an extra burst of flavor.

8. Decorative Touches

   After the cake has cooled, feel free to decorate it to suit any occasion. You could add candied fruits, edible flowers, or a dusting of icing sugar for a festive look. A simple but elegant option is to add a thin layer of marzipan, followed by royal icing, which can be easily molded into fun shapes or left smooth for a more classic finish.

Storing Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake is an indulgent dessert that can be enjoyed long after it’s baked, making it perfect for gifting or saving for later. Properly storing your leftovers ensures that the cake stays fresh and delicious, even days or weeks after it’s been made.

1. Room Temperature Storage

   If you plan to consume the cake within a few days, storing it at room temperature is perfectly fine. Simply wrap the cake in wax paper or parchment paper and then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. This will help lock in the moisture while preventing it from drying out. Store it in an airtight container or a cake tin to further protect it from air exposure and maintain its freshness.

2. Refrigeration for Longer Shelf Life

   For longer storage, especially if you’ve made a large batch, you can refrigerate the fruit cake. After wrapping it in wax paper and plastic wrap, place the cake in an airtight container. The cool temperature will keep the cake fresh for up to two weeks, and it will also help preserve the flavor. If you’ve added alcohol to the recipe, refrigeration can actually enhance the flavors over time, as the alcohol continues to infuse the fruits and spices.

3. Freezing the Fruit Cake

   Fruit cakes freeze exceptionally well, making them a great option for prepping ahead of time or saving leftovers for special occasions. To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil. Place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight. Avoid microwaving it, as this can alter the texture of the cake.

4. Reviving Leftover Fruit Cake

   If your fruit cake has dried out slightly after storage, don’t despair. You can rehydrate it by brushing it with a bit of fruit juice, tea, or even a splash of alcohol. This will restore some of the moisture and flavor. Alternatively, you could reheat the cake gently in the oven for a warm, comforting treat. Just wrap it in foil and heat it at a low temperature (about 150°C or 300°F) for 10-15 minutes.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake?

Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake is indulgent and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with other foods can elevate the experience. Whether you enjoy it with a hot drink, a cold beverage, or as part of a larger spread, here are a few ideas on what to serve alongside it:

1. Cheese Pairings

   Fruit cake and cheese are a classic pairing, especially with sharp, tangy cheeses that contrast the cake’s sweetness. Try serving slices of Mary Berry’s fruit cake with a mature cheddar, stilton, or even a creamy goat’s cheese. The richness of the cheese balances the sweetness of the cake, creating a harmonious combination. If you prefer a more refined option, serve it with a few thin slices of brie or camembert.

2. Tea or Coffee

   Mary Berry’s fruit cake is often enjoyed as an afternoon treat with a cup of tea. A traditional English breakfast tea or a fragrant Earl Grey would complement the spices in the cake beautifully. For coffee lovers, a rich espresso or a frothy cappuccino would provide a nice contrast to the fruitiness of the cake. If you want something with a little more flair, serve it alongside a spiced chai or a warm mulled wine, especially during the holiday season.

3. Clotted Cream or Whipped Cream

   For a more indulgent treat, serve a slice of fruit cake with a dollop of clotted cream or freshly whipped cream. The rich, creamy texture pairs perfectly with the dense, fruity cake, adding a luxurious touch to the dessert. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of fresh cream would also be a great addition.

4. Fruit and Nuts

   If you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to add more variety to your dessert spread, pair the cake with fresh fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or grapes. Nuts like almonds, pecans, and hazelnuts can add texture and flavor. A small bowl of fruit preserves, such as apricot or strawberry jam, could also provide a lovely sweet and tart contrast to the richness of the fruit cake.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake is a timeless recipe that offers both simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re customizing the ingredients to suit your tastes, storing leftovers for later enjoyment, or figuring out the best things to serve alongside it, this cake provides plenty of opportunities for creativity and indulgence. With the right variations, you can personalize it to suit any occasion-be it a festive holiday, a cozy afternoon tea, or a gift for loved ones. And when stored properly, it keeps its delightful flavors for weeks, making it the gift that keeps on giving. So, whether you’re enjoying a slice on its own or pairing it with a delicious complement, this fruit cake is bound to bring joy with every bite.

FAQs

What Makes Mary Berry’s Fruit Cake Recipe Easy To Follow?

Mary Berry’s easy fruit cake recipe is designed to be straightforward, with clear instructions and minimal ingredients. The recipe uses a simple mix of dried fruits, butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. There are no complicated steps like soaking the fruit overnight, and the cake requires just one mixing bowl, making the process less time-consuming and less prone to errors. The ease also comes from her precise measurements and baking times, which ensure a consistent result every time.

Can I Use Different Fruits In Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can customize the fruit mix in Mary Berry’s easy fruit cake recipe to your taste. While the recipe traditionally uses a combination of currants, sultanas, and raisins, you can easily swap in other dried fruits like chopped dried apricots, prunes, or cranberries. Just keep in mind that altering the types of fruit might change the cake’s flavor and texture slightly, but it should still be delicious.

How Long Does Mary Berry’s Easy Fruit Cake Need To Bake, And How Can I Tell When It’s Done?

Mary Berry’s easy fruit cake typically bakes at 150°C (130°C for fan ovens) for around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your oven. It’s important to check the cake’s doneness by inserting a skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If the skewer has moist batter on it, continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes and test again. You can also gently press on the top of the cake-if it springs back, it’s done.