Classic Fruitcake with a Tea Time Twist

Recipe: Classic Fruitcake with a Tea Time Twist

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, candied cherries, candied citrus peel)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup strong brewed black tea, cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Tea Time Twist:

• Warm brewed black tea, such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast
• Clotted cream or whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts. Toss them with 1/4 cup of the flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake while baking.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the cooled brewed tea. Mix until just combined.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and lemon zest.
7. Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean.
10. Allow the fruitcake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once the fruitcake is completely cooled, it’s ready to be enjoyed. Slice it into wedges and serve it alongside a warm cup of brewed black tea. The rich and slightly sweet flavours of the fruitcake complement the robust and comforting qualities of tea, creating a harmonious balance.

Tea Time Twist:

To enhance the tea time experience, serve warm slices of fruitcake with a side of clotted cream or whipped cream. The creamy texture of the clotted cream adds a delightful contrast to the dense and moist fruitcake, while whipped cream brings a touch of indulgence. Sip on a freshly brewed cup of your favourite black tea, such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast, and savour the delightful pairing of flavours. The tea’s warmth and the cake’s comforting sweetness create a perfect synergy that makes tea time truly special.

Enjoy this classic fruitcake recipe with a tea time twist, and relish in the delightful combination of flavours that bring comfort and joy to your afternoon tea rituals.