Name: 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake That's Moist, Easy, and Delicious
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 850 min
Ingredients: 1 kg mixed dried fruit (choose a mix of sultanas, raisins, or dried apricots); 600 ml chocolate milk (can substitute with fruit juice or tea); 2 cups self-raising flour (or all-purpose flour plus 2 tsp baking powder per cup); nuts (your favorite chopped nuts); spices (cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor)

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As the aroma of something delightful fills your kitchen, it’s hard not to get excited about a baking adventure. Today, I’m thrilled to share my effortless 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake, a recipe that promises to be your go-to for any dessert craving! With just three simple ingredients, this moist and flavorful cake showcases the natural sweetness of dried fruits, making it a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern convenience. Not only is this cake a total crowd-pleaser, but it’s also vegan-friendly, meaning you can indulge without any eggs or butter. Plus, its quick prep time means you can whip it up in a flash—perfect for impromptu gatherings or afternoon tea. What variations will you create to make it your own?

Why is This Cake So Special?

Simplicity reigns supreme with this easy-to-follow recipe that requires only three ingredients! Delightful flavors come from the combination of mixed dried fruits and chocolate milk, producing a moist cake perfect for any occasion. Customization options abound—swap chocolate milk for fruit juice or add your favorite nuts and spices to create a unique twist. Quick prep time means fewer stress and more time to enjoy with loved ones. Plus, it’s a healthier treat, with around 150 calories per slice, making it a guilt-free indulgence that rivals other classic desserts! Why not pair it with a cup of coffee, alongside your favorite Brownie Refrigerator Cake for a delightful afternoon?

3 Ingredient Fruit Cake Ingredients

• For the Cake

Mixed Dried Fruit – Provides the main flavor, so choose a mix of sultanas, raisins, or dried apricots for a delightful texture and sweetness.
Chocolate Milk – Adds moisture and a hint of sweetness; you can also substitute it with fruit juice or tea for a different flavor profile.
Self-Raising Flour – Gives the cake structure and lift; if you don’t have this, replace it with all-purpose flour plus 2 tsp baking powder per cup.

• Optional Add-Ins

Nuts – Add your favorite chopped nuts for a crunchy texture that complements the fruit beautifully.
Spices – Consider incorporating cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, cozy notes that enhance the cake’s overall flavor.

Creating your own 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake means making a dessert that’s both simple and full of personality. Enjoy the process of customization!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake

Step 1: Soak the Fruit
Begin by combining 1 kg of mixed dried fruit with 600 ml of chocolate milk in a large mixing bowl. Stir the mixture gently to ensure the fruit is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This soaking process enhances the flavors, making your 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake moist and delicious.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan
The next day, preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). While the oven heats, grab a 20 cm (8-inch) square tin and line it with baking paper or lightly grease with oil to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your cake releases easily after baking, leading to a beautifully formed fruit cake.

Step 3: Mix Stirr
Once the oven is preheated, it’s time to combine the ingredients! Add 2 cups of self-raising flour to the soaked fruit mixture in the bowl. Mix thoroughly until just combined, avoiding over-mixing to keep your 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake light and fluffy. The batter will be thick, studded with pieces of fruit, creating a delightful visual.

Step 4: Bake
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer in the center—the skewer should come out clean when the cake is ready. A golden brown top will also signal that it’s done!

Step 5: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 30 minutes. Then, gently transfer the cake to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely. This cooling time is crucial as it helps set the cake’s texture. Slice your 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake once cooled, and enjoy a moist, fruity treat at any occasion!

What to Serve with 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake

Indulging in a slice of this delightful fruit cake invites you to create a complete, cozy meal experience.

Creamy Greek Yogurt: The tanginess beautifully balances the cake’s sweetness, creating a delightful contrast that awakens your taste buds.
Fresh Berries: Adding a handful of juicy strawberries or blueberries brings a pop of color and freshness, enhancing your dessert plate.
Spiced Tea: A warm cup of chai or spiced herbal tea offers comforting, aromatic flavors that complement the fruitiness of the cake perfectly.
Whipped Coconut Cream: This vegan-friendly addition creates a luscious and airy topping, brilliant for drizzling over each slice for a tropical touch.
Nuts & Seeds Mix: A handful of toasted nuts or seeds beside your cake adds crunch and a satisfying textural contrast that keeps every bite interesting.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich, melted chocolate over the cake elevates it into a decadent dessert experience that chocolate lovers will adore.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and smooth, this classic pairing transforms your dessert into a delightful sundae that melts in your mouth.
Lemon Drizzle: A tangy lemon glaze enhances the cake’s natural sweetness, cutting through the richness while adding a zingy finish.
Cinnamon Sugar: Dusting a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar enhances the warm spices and elevates the flavor profile of your cake with every slice.
Coffee: A steaming cup of your favorite brew rounds out the meal, complementing the cake’s cozy flavor profile for a comforting dessert experience.

How to Store and Freeze 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month to maintain its delightful moisture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a cooler treat, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 3 weeks. Be sure to wrap it well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of the 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To serve warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-10 minutes, until warmed through.

3 Ingredient Fruit Cake Variations

Feel free to explore different variations and make this cake uniquely yours!

Juice Swap: Use orange juice instead of chocolate milk for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft fruit.
Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy and aromatic twist for colder evenings.
Vegan-Friendly: Stick with plant-based chocolate milk or almond milk to keep everything vegan while enhancing the cake’s flavor profile.
Chai Fusion: Swap chocolate milk out for brewed chai tea to infuse your cake with aromatic spices and a warm flavor.
Chocolate Boost: Add cocoa powder for an extra chocolatey experience—it pairs surprisingly well with the fruit!
Fruity Medley: Experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries or figs for diverse textures and flavors that enhance each bite.
Coffee Infusion: Consider using brewed coffee for an energetic kick that complements the sweetness of the cake.

With these variations, you can create endless possibilities to delight your family and friends! And if you’re looking for a delightful pairing, this cake goes wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a slice of Lemon Blueberry Cake during your afternoon tea.

Expert Tips for 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake

• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh or high-quality mixed dried fruits for the best flavor and texture in your 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake.

• Watch Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake for doneness at the 1.5-hour mark to avoid overbaking.

• Stay Moist: For an even moister cake, let the soaked fruit sit for up to 24 hours in the fridge before mixing.

• Substitutions Matter: When swapping chocolate milk, consider the sweetness of your alternative. Fruit juice may need less added sugar.

• Let It Cool: Patience is key! Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure and moistness.

Make Ahead Options

These 3 Ingredient Fruit Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can soak the dried fruits in chocolate milk up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavors and ensures a moister cake. Once combined, store the soaked fruit covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. On the day of baking, simply preheat the oven, mix in the self-raising flour, and follow the baking instructions. To maintain quality, be sure to cool the cake completely before storing it in an airtight container at room temperature; it can stay delicious for up to one month. Enjoy the flavorful payoff with minimal effort when you prepare ahead!

3 Ingredient Fruit Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best dried fruits for my fruit cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake, go for fresh or high-quality mixed dried fruits. Look for an appealing mix of sultanas, raisins, and dried apricots—these add natural sweetness and create a delightful texture in your cake. Avoid any that have dark spots or a stale smell, as those indicate poor quality.

How should I store my fruit cake to keep it fresh?
You can store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month. If you’d like to keep it even longer, consider refrigerating it for up to 3 weeks, but make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out. This way, you’ll still enjoy that moist, fruity delight every time you take a slice!

Can I freeze 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake for later?
Yes, you can freeze your 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake! To do this, allow it to cool completely, then cut it into slices and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a piece, thaw it at room temperature or reheat it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or bake it at 150°C (300°F) for 5-10 minutes.

What if my cake is too dense after baking?
Very common! If your cake turns out denser than expected, it could be due to over-mixing the batter or not enough moisture. Make sure to mix just until combined, avoiding over-mixing. Additionally, when soaking the dried fruits, don’t hesitate to let them sit for up to 24 hours in the fridge, which can help achieve a moister cake texture. Just bake it until a skewer comes out clean, and keep an eye on it as ovens vary!

Is this fruit cake safe for dietary restrictions like vegan and allergies?
Certainly! This 3 Ingredient Fruit Cake is vegan-friendly since it contains no eggs or butter. However, always check the labels on your ingredients for possible allergens. For instance, if you’re adding nuts, be mindful of nut allergies. If you have specific dietary needs, feel free to use alternatives like nut milk in place of chocolate milk, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.