If you’re searching for a simple, no-fuss dessert, this 3-Ingredient Fruit Cake is the perfect solution. Made with only three ingredients—mixed dried fruit, chocolate milk (or plain milk), and self-raising flour—this fruit cake is an ideal treat for the holidays or a quick snack. With minimal prep work and an incredibly moist texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that anyone can make.
Ingredients:
02 lbs mixed dried fruit
2 cups chocolate milk (or plain milk)
2 cups self-raising flour
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C) and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
Soak the Fruit:
In a large bowl, mix the dried fruit with the chocolate milk. Let the mixture soak for at least 1 hour, which will soften the fruit and infuse the flavors.
Add the Flour:
After soaking, add the self-raising flour to the fruit mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and no dry flour remains.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve as a snack or dessert!
Serving Tips:
As-Is: This 3-Ingredient Fruit Cake is moist and flavorful enough to enjoy on its own. Slice it into wedges and serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
With Toppings: For a more indulgent dessert, top slices with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch, perfect for serving at holiday gatherings.
Serve Warm: To enhance the flavor, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Store the fruit cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup.
Refrigeration: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container to retain its moisture.
Freezing: This cake freezes well! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The fruit cake will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for a few hours or defrost slices in the microwave for a quick snack.
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FAQs:
Can I use plain milk instead of chocolate milk?
Yes, plain milk works perfectly in this recipe. While chocolate milk adds a richer flavor, regular milk will still give you a delicious and moist fruit cake. You can also try almond milk or other non-dairy options if you prefer.
What type of dried fruit should I use?
You can use any combination of dried fruit that you like! A typical mix includes raisins, sultanas, dried apricots, dates, and figs. You can also customize it by adding dried cherries, cranberries, or even candied peel for more flavor variety.
Can I add spices or nuts to the cake?
Absolutely! While the recipe is simple, you can enhance the flavor by adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or mixed spice. You can also toss in chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, to add texture.
How long does the cake last, and can it be frozen?
The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 days in an airtight container or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It also freezes well—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or gently warm slices in the microwave.
Conclusion:
This 3-Ingredient Fruit Cake is perfect for when you need an easy dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet snack, this cake is sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious taste.
📖 Recipe:
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3-Ingredient Fruit Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This 3-Ingredient Fruit Cake is a quick, easy, and delicious recipe, perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a simple dessert. Made with just dried fruit, chocolate milk, and self-raising flour, it’s a foolproof option that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is ideal for creating a moist and flavorful fruit cake with no added sugar or complex techniques.
Ingredients
2 lbs mixed dried fruit
2 cups chocolate milk (or plain milk)
2 cups self-raising flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried fruit and chocolate milk. Let the mixture soak for at least 1 hour to soften the fruit.
- After soaking, stir in the self-raising flour until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan before slicing and serving.
Notes
You can substitute the chocolate milk with plain milk or any non-dairy milk alternatives.
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra holiday flavor.
This cake freezes well; wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
The cake’s flavor deepens after a day, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time)
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 slices
- Calories: 250 kcal
