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boiled fruit cake recipe cwa

Boiled Fruit Cake Recipe (CWA)

5 from 1 vote
This boiled fruit cake recipe, inspired by the Country Women's Association (CWA), is a classic, moist, and flavorful cake made by boiling dried fruits with butter, sugar, and spices before baking. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion, from casual tea gatherings to festive holidays. The result is a rich, spiced cake that stays moist for days and can be enjoyed with whipped cream, tea, or even a scoop of ice cream.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Australian, Traditional, Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup mixed dried fruit raisins, sultanas, currants
  • 1/2 cup mixed peel
  • 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots or dates
  • 1/2 cup butter unsalted
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger optional
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts walnuts or almonds, optional
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup plain flour sifted
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 cup rum brandy, or orange juice (optional for soaking)

Equipment

  • 20cm round or square cake tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • Saucepan
  • Spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Sifter for flour
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Electric hand mixer (optional for beating eggs)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the fruit mixture: In a saucepan, combine mixed dried fruit, mixed peel, and chopped apricots or dates with 1/2 cup water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5–10 minutes. Stir in butter, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Let the mixture cool for 15–20 minutes.
    boiled fruit cake recipe cwa
  2. Prepare the cake batter: Beat in the eggs one at a time. Sift the flour and baking powder together, then fold into the cooled fruit mixture. Add chopped nuts if desired and stir until well combined.
  3. Bake the cake: Grease and line a 20cm cake tin. Pour the batter into the tin and smooth the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 1.5 hours or until a skewer comes out clean.
  4. Cool and serve: Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
    boiled fruit cake recipe cwa

Notes

  • For extra flavor, soak the dried fruit in rum or brandy overnight, or use orange juice for a non-alcoholic option.
  • You can substitute any dried fruit and nuts based on preference, such as using cranberries, figs, or pecans.
  • The cake improves in flavor after a day or two, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time.boiled fruit cake recipe cwa