If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious treat, the 3 Ingredient Christmas Cake is a must-try. This fruit cake, made with mixed fruit, iced coffee, and self-raising flour, is a true winner in both ease of preparation and taste. Originating from a beloved CWA Country Women’s Association recipe, this cake has gained fame for its minimalistic approach to baking – just three ingredients, no fuss, all flavor.
I recently discovered this recipe and was pleasantly surprised by how moist and flavorful this fruit cake turned out to be. The secret lies in soaking the fruit in chocolate milk overnight before mixing in the flour and baking. The result is a perfectly moist cake that slices beautifully and is ideal for any occasion, from picnics to holiday gatherings. Trust me, once you try this 3 ingredient fruit cake, you’ll be tempted to make it over and over again.
Ingredients
For this Pressure Cooker Three Ingredient Holiday Fruitcake recipe, you will only need three basic ingredients. Here they are:
- Mixed Fruit: 2 cups of mixed fruit are the core ingredient of this delicious fruitcake. Ensure you have a good mix of dried fruits like raisins, sultanas, and currants.
- Iced Coffee: 1 cup of cold, brewed iced coffee is a surprising but essential component that adds a unique flavor to the fruitcake.
- Self-Raising Flour: You’ll need 1 and 3/4 cups of self-raising flour to bring everything together and create the perfect texture for the fruitcake.
These simple ingredients, when combined in the right proportions, will result in a moist and flavorful Pressure Cooker Three Ingredient Holiday Fruitcake that will surely impress your guests.
Necessary Tools and Equipment
To successfully prepare this delightful 3-ingredient fruit cake, you will need a few essential tools and equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll require:
- Cake Tin: Use an 8-inch round tin, a 8 x 6-inch rectangular tin, or a 7-inch square tin to bake the fruit cake.
- Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl for combining the flour, sugar, and fruit juice.
- Spoon or Spatula: To easily mix the batter until it forms a thick consistency.
- Baking Paper or Parchment: Line the cake tin with baking paper to prevent sticking.
- Vegetable Oil or Cake Release Spray: Grease the cake tin before adding the fruit and batter.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 170°C fan/340°F/Gas Mark 5 for baking the fruit cake.
- Pressure Cooker: If opting for the pressure cooker method, have a suitable pressure cooker and trivet ready.
- Lid: Ensure you have a suitable lid for your cake tin to cover the batter during baking.
Having these tools and equipment on hand will make the process of creating your 3-ingredient fruit cake much smoother.
Preparation
Before diving into the preparation process, it’s essential to ensure you have all your ingredients and equipment ready. Ensuring you have everything organized will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Prepping the Fruit
Start by rinsing the dried fruit in water if needed to remove any sugar coating. Next, soak the fruit in juice overnight. This step allows the fruit to absorb moisture, becoming plump and flavorful, enhancing the final texture of your fruitcake.
Preparing the Bake Environment
If you opt for baking in the oven, ensure you have preheated it to the recommended temperature. Grease your cake tin and line it with baking parchment to prevent sticking. Organize your work area by having all utensils and ingredients within reach to streamline the baking process.
Directions
Preparing the fruitcake is a straightforward process that results in a delightful treat. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious 3-ingredient fruit cake effortlessly.
Mixing the Ingredients
- Open a can of fruit cocktail in juice and strain it over a bowl, saving the juice. Line a cake tin with baking paper and arrange the fruit in the tin.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour and caster sugar. Add the fruit juice along with two tablespoons of water. Mix well until you have a thick batter. If needed, adjust the consistency by adding a little more water.
- Pour the batter over the fruit in the cake tin. Gently shake the pan to spread the batter evenly before placing it in the preheated oven to bake.
Baking the Cake
- Bake the fruitcake in the oven at 170°C fan/340°F/Gas Mark 5 for approximately 35 minutes or until the top is golden and springy to touch.
- To ensure the cake is fully cooked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If not, bake for an additional 5 minutes before checking again.
- Allow the baked fruit cake to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before removing it. Use a tea towel under the lid and turn the bowl occasionally to prevent moisture buildup on the top of the cake.
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, carefully unmold it and let it cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy this moist and flavorful 3-ingredient fruit cake as a delightful treat for any occasion.
Variations
Non-Alcoholic Alternatives
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version of the three-ingredient fruit cake, you can replace the juice used in the recipe with flavorsome alternatives. Consider substituting the juice with fruit-flavored teas, such as berry or citrus-infused teas, for a unique twist on the classic recipe. These non-alcoholic options add a refreshing flavor profile to the cake without compromising on taste.
Adding Nuts or Spices
To enhance the complexity of flavors in your three-ingredient fruit cake, experiment with adding nuts or spices to the batter. Chop some walnuts, almonds, or salted peanuts and mix them in with your fruit and flour mixture for added texture and nuttiness. Additionally, consider incorporating warm spices like cinnamon or mixed spice to elevate the cake’s taste, creating a cozy and aromatic dessert perfect for any occasion.
Storing and Serving
Storage Tips
After baking your delightful 3-ingredient fruit cake, store it properly to keep it fresh and delicious. To maintain its moisture and flavors, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze portions of the cake in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight.
Conclusion
Creating a delicious fruitcake with just three ingredients is easier than you think. By following the Pressure Cooker Three Ingredient Holiday Fruitcake recipe, you can enjoy a moist and flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. With the right mix of mixed fruit, iced coffee, and self-raising flour, you’ll impress your guests with minimal effort. Remember to personalize your fruitcake by adding nuts, spices, or experimenting with different flavors. By mastering this simple recipe, you’ll always have a go-to dessert that’s sure to please. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a delightful 3-ingredient fruit cake that will leave everyone wanting more. Happy baking!