Here’s a delightful recipe for a no-bake fruit cake. This cake is packed with dried fruits, nuts, and a hint of spices, all held together with a rich and flavorful binding. It’s perfect for those times when you want a quick, easy, and delicious dessert without having to turn on the oven.
No-Bake Fruit Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (e.g., raisins, currants, chopped dates, chopped apricots)
- 1 cup mixed nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans, almonds, chopped)
- 1 cup digestive biscuits or graham crackers, crushed into fine crumbs
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup honey or golden syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup brandy or orange juice (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line an 8-inch round or square cake pan with plastic wrap or parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift the cake out later.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, mixed nuts, and crushed biscuits or graham crackers.
- Prepare the Wet Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, honey or golden syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Do not let it boil.
- Combine and Bind:
- Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Add the orange zest and brandy or orange juice (if using). Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated and the mixture is well combined.
- Press into the Pan:
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared cake pan. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly.
- Chill:
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until it is firm and set.
- Serve:
- Once the cake is set, lift it out of the pan using the overhanging plastic wrap or parchment paper. Place it on a serving plate.
- Slice the cake into pieces and serve. You can store the cake in the refrigerator for up to a week.
This no-bake fruit cake is a rich, flavorful treat that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Enjoy!
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