Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots, and dates)
2 tbsp orange juice or brandy (optional, for soaking fruits)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option)
2 large eggs
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp almond extract
1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional: almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
For Decoration:
Powdered sugar for dusting
Glazed cherries, nuts, or dried fruit slices (optional)
Instructions
Prep the Fruits:
If time permits, soak the dried fruits in orange juice or brandy for 10 minutes to enhance flavor. Drain before using.
Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, vanilla, and almond extracts, mixing well.
Sift together the flour, baking powder, allspice, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Stir in the soaked fruits and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
Prepare the Pan:
Grease and line a 6-inch round or square cake tin with parchment paper. Ensure it fits comfortably in your air fryer basket.
Air Fryer Cooking:
Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Place the filled cake tin into the air fryer basket. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Cool and Decorate:
Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with cherries or nuts for a festive touch.
Pro Tips:
For a richer flavor, make the batter a day in advance and refrigerate it, allowing the spices to infuse.
You can substitute gluten-free flour or use almond flour for a low-carb version.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 250 | Carbs: 30g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 3g
