This delicate butter cake studded with dried fruits offers the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. With its tender crumb and generous fruit distribution, this classic recipe makes an elegant addition to any afternoon tea or brunch spread.
Prep Time & Duration
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 25-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-50 minutes
- Serves: 9-12 squares
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 150g (⅔ cup) butter, softened
- 125g (½ cup + 2 tablespoons) sugar
- 3 medium eggs, room temperature
- 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 180g (1¼ cups) plain flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Flavorings
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond essence (optional)
- 150g (1 cup) mixed dried fruits
For Finishing
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 170°C (338°F)
- Line 20x20cm (8×8 inch) baking pan with parchment paper
- Bring eggs and butter to room temperature
Making the Batter
- Cream together:
- Softened butter
- Sugar
Until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes)
- Add eggs:
- One at a time
- Beat well after each addition
- Scrape down bowl sides
- Incorporate:
- Plain yogurt
- Vanilla extract
- Almond essence (if using)
- Combine dry ingredients:
- Sift flour
- Add baking powder
- Fold into wet mixture
- Finally:
- Gently fold in dried fruits
- Ensure even distribution
Baking Process
- Pour batter into prepared pan
- Level surface gently
- Bake 25-35 minutes until:
- Golden brown
- Skewer comes out clean
- Edges slightly pull from pan
Finishing
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes
- Transfer to wire rack
- Cool completely
- Dust with powdered sugar
Professional Tips
- Room temperature ingredients ensure better mixing
- Don’t overmix after adding flour
- Toss dried fruits in flour to prevent sinking
- Check cake at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking
Nutrition Information (per slice)
- Calories: 245
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
Storage Instructions
- Room temperature: 3-4 days in airtight container
- Refrigerated: Up to 1 week
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (wrap well)
Variations
Fruit Options
- Raisins
- Cranberries
- Chopped apricots
- Currants
- Mixed candied peel
Flavor Additions
- Orange zest
- Lemon zest
- Ground cinnamon
- Mixed spice
- Ground nutmeg
Serving Suggestions
- Warm with custard
- With afternoon tea
- As dessert with whipped cream
- Breakfast treat
- Lunchbox addition
Perfect for:
- Tea parties
- Brunch gatherings
- Bake sales
- Gift giving
- Holiday celebrations
This versatile fruit cake combines the richness of a butter cake with the sweet chew of dried fruits, creating a delightful treat that’s both comforting and elegant. Its simplicity makes it perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions.
