Indulge in a taste of tradition with our delightful Mixed Spice Cake Recipe UK, a classic British treat that's perfect for afternoon tea or a cozy family gathering. This comforting cake is infused with a warm blend of spices, creating a comforting aroma that fills your home as it bakes. Let's dive into this timeless recipe and bring a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen.
Understanding Mixed Spice
Mixed spice, also known as pudding spice, is a quintessential blend of warming spices that's been a staple in British baking for centuries. It typically includes a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, coriander, ginger, and cloves. This harmonious blend adds a depth of flavour to cakes, making them moist, aromatic, and utterly moreish.
Ingredients for the Perfect Mixed Spice Cake
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Self-raising flour | 225g (1 cup + 2 tbsp) |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Mixed spice | 2 tsp |
| Salt | Pinch |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 225g (1 cup) |
| Caster sugar | 225g (1 cup) |
| Eggs | 4 |
| Milk | 4 tbsp |
| Zest of 1 lemon |
Optional: For a Fruity Twist
- 225g (1 cup) of mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants)
- 100g (1/2 cup) of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans)
Equipment Needed
- 21cm (8.5in) round cake tin
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Sieve
- Baking parchment
Instructions: Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or Gas Mark 4. Grease and line your cake tin with baking parchment.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This should take around 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer or 5-7 minutes by hand.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. If the mixture starts to curdle, add a spoonful of flour.
Sift in the flour, baking powder, mixed spice, and salt. Gently fold into the butter and egg mixture using a spatula. Add the milk and lemon zest, and combine until just mixed. If using, fold in the dried fruit and nuts.
Pour the batter into your prepared cake tin and smooth the top with the back of a spoon. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean.
Leave the cake to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storing Your Mixed Spice Cake
Once cooled, dust your mixed spice cake with a light sprinkling of icing sugar or serve it with a dollop of clotted cream for a truly indulgent treat. This cake keeps well for up to 5 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the comforting aroma of this traditional Mixed Spice Cake Recipe UK fill your home. Happy baking!