Have you made your Christmas cake yet? If not this one by Delia Smith is so quick and easy - even I can make it.... and it is delicious too!
1lb (400g) good quality mincemeat
8oz (225g) wholemeal flour
3 level tsps baking powder
5oz (150g) dark brown sugar
5oz (150g) softened butter or soft margarine
6oz (175g) mixed dried fruit
2oz (50g) chopped walnuts (I just used mixed chopped nuts)
Grated zest of 1 small orange and one small lemon
3 eggs size 1 or 2
4oz (110g) whole blanched almonds (only if you don't intend to ice the cake)
Pre heat the oven to Gas 3, 325 F or 170 C
You will need an 8" (20cm) round cake tin, greased and the base
and sides lined with greasproof paper
Method:
Place all ingredients (except the almonds) into a large mixing bowl. There is no need to beat the eggs -
just break them in but it is a good idea to sift the flour to give it an airing then tip the bits of bran back in.
Using an electric hand whisk (or wooden spoon which will take a bit longer) beat everything together thoroughly. Spoon the mixture evenly into the tin, level off the surface and if you are using them, arrange the almonds in circles over the top.
Bake for 1 hour 30 minutes or until the centre springs back when lightly touched. Let it cool in the tin for 30 minutes before turning out to cool on a rack. If you want to and have the time you can 'feed' it with brandy but it tastes great anyway!
Note: The cooking times vary from oven to oven and can take up to 2 hours.
This cake really is worth a little effort. I have made it for years. Thank you Delia!!
