This Butter Fruit and Nut Loaf Cake is a rich and flavorful treat, perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy butter, sweet dried fruits, and crunchy nuts creates a delightful texture and taste. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this loaf cake is a crowd-pleaser for tea time or as a dessert.

Preparation Time

• • Prep Time: 15 minutes

 

• Baking Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

 

• • Butter: 130g (½ cup + 1 tablespoon)
  • Sugar: 100g (½ cup)
  • Eggs: 3

 

• • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Almond essence (optional): ½ teaspoon
  • Plain flour: 200g (1⅓ cups)

 

• Baking powder: 1¼ teaspoons
• Dried fruit and nuts: 150g (about 1 cup)

Measuring cup size: 240ml

Equipment

• Baking pan: 21x11x6 cm

Directions

 

1. 1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
      • In a mixing bowl, cream together 130g of butter and 100g of sugar. Whisk for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
   2. Add the Eggs
      • • Add the eggs one at a time, whisking at high speed after each addition. Ensure each egg is well incorporated before adding the next.

       

   3. Add Flavors
      • Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of almond essence (optional) until fully combined.

 

1. 1. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
      • • Sift 200g of plain flour and 1¼ teaspoons of baking powder into a separate bowl.
        • Add half the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and gently fold it in with a spatula.
        • Add the remaining dry mixture and whisk for about 15 seconds, just until combined.

       

   2. Fold in the Dried Fruits and Nuts
      • Gently fold 150g of dried fruits and nuts into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

 

1. 1. Prepare the Baking Pan
      • Grease a 21x11x6 cm baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
      • Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

 

1. 1. Bake the Cake
      • Preheat your oven to 170°C (338°F).
      • Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

 

1. 1. Cool and Serve
      • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
      • Slice and serve as a delightful snack or dessert.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Enjoy alongside a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

 

• Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Cooking Tips

• • Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.

 

• Use a mix of dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots for varied flavor.
• Chop larger nuts and dried fruits into smaller pieces for even distribution.

Nutritional Benefits

 

• • Butter: Provides richness and flavor.
  • Dried Fruits: High in fiber and natural sugars.
  • Nuts: Add protein and healthy fats.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian-friendly.
  • Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate)

• • Calories: 210
  • Protein: 4g

 

• • Fat: 11g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g

Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.