Golden Raisin & Berry Fruit Cake

Moist, aromatic fruit cake with golden raisins, juicy berries, warm spices—boiled then baked for bold flavor and ease in one quick pot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick one-pot preparation
• Perfect blend of sweet raisins, tart berries, and warm spices
• Moist, dense texture without the need for soaking
• Easy, reliable recipe for beginners and busy bakers
• Versatile—great for tea time, gifting, or holiday tables
• Alcohol-free and family-friendly
• Stores well and improves in flavor over time
• Customizable with your favorite dried fruits
• No mixer or fancy tools needed
• Crowd-pleasing flavor with minimal cleanup

Ingredients

• 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter
• 225g (1 cup) soft brown sugar
• 225g (1½ cups) mixed dried fruit (golden raisins, dried cranberries, dried blueberries)
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp mixed spice (or ½ tsp each nutmeg + allspice)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 225g (1¾ cups) self-raising flour (or all-purpose flour + 2 tsp baking powder)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 160°C (140°C fan) / 325°F / gas mark 3. Line a 900g (2 lb) loaf tin with parchment paper.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, dried fruit, orange zest and juice, cinnamon, and mixed spice.
3. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool for 10 minutes.
4. Once slightly cooled, stir in the beaten eggs.
5. Gently fold in the flour and stir just until combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 1½ to 1¾ hours. Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly. The cake is done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. For best flavor, wrap in parchment and foil, then store for 1–2 days before slicing.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 10–12 slices
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 370 kcal

Variations

• Citrus twist: Add lemon zest or a splash of orange extract
• Nutty version: Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• Tropical option: Substitute with dried pineapple or mango
• Chocolate touch: Mix in ½ cup dark chocolate chips
• Mini bakes: Use muffin tins or mini loaf pans—bake for 40–50 minutes

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
• Refrigeration: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 2 weeks
• Freezing: Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature overnight
• Reheating: Serve at room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds

FAQs

Can I Use Different Berries?

Yes, any dried berries like cherries, currants, or goji berries will work well.

Is This Cake Alcohol-Free?

Yes, this version does not contain alcohol and is suitable for all ages.

Can I Add Nuts To This Recipe?

Absolutely—walnuts, pecans, or almonds add great crunch and flavor.

What Can I Use Instead Of Brown Sugar?

You can use coconut sugar or a mix of white and molasses for a similar flavor.

Is This Cake Suitable For Vegans?

With swaps like vegan butter and flax eggs, it can be made vegan-friendly.

What If I Don’t Have Mixed Spice?

Use a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice or ginger.

Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead Of Dried?

Dried fruit is best for this recipe. Fresh fruit may alter the texture and moisture levels.

Why Does My Cake Crack On Top?

Cracks are normal for dense loaf cakes and do not affect the taste or quality.

How Long Does The Cake Last?

Up to 5 days at room temperature or longer in the fridge or freezer.

Can I Decorate It?

Yes, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple icing for a festive look.

Conclusion

Golden Raisin & Berry Fruit Cake is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. With its spiced aroma, tender crumb, and fruity richness, it’s a beautiful bake for any occasion—whether you’re gifting, entertaining, or enjoying a cozy slice with tea. One pot, one pan, pure satisfaction.

Golden Raisin & Berry Fruit Cake

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• Author: Chef Clara
• Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
• Yield: 10–12 slices 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A beautifully moist and aromatic loaf cake filled with golden raisins, mixed berries, and warm spices. This quick one-pot recipe simplifies traditional fruit cake by boiling the ingredients together before baking, resulting in deep flavor and tender texture with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter
• 225g (1 cup) soft brown sugar
• 225g (1½ cups) mixed dried fruit (golden raisins, dried cranberries, dried blueberries)
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp mixed spice (or ½ tsp each nutmeg + allspice)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 225g (1¾ cups) self-raising flour (or all-purpose flour + 2 tsp baking powder)
• 2–3 tbsp brandy, rum, or sherry (optional but recommended)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 160°C (140°C fan) / 325°F / gas mark 3. Line a 900g (2 lb) loaf tin with parchment paper.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, dried fruit, orange zest and juice, cinnamon, and mixed spice.
3. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool for 10 minutes.
4. Once slightly cooled, stir in the beaten eggs.
5. Gently fold in the flour. Add the brandy, rum, or sherry if using, and stir just until combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 1½ to 1¾ hours. Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly. The cake is done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. For best flavor, wrap in parchment and foil, then store for 1–2 days before slicing. Optionally brush with extra alcohol weekly to keep it moist and deepen the flavor.

Notes

• Try substituting orange zest with lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
• Perfect for festive gifting—wrap in parchment and ribbon for a personal touch.
• Make it nutty by adding ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 29g
• Sodium: 125mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 75mg