Light and Fluffy Dried Fruit Sheet Cake: A Perfect Tea-Time Treat

Cake Base

• 150g (⅔ cup) butter, softened
• 125g (½ cup + 2 tablespoons) sugar
• 3 medium eggs, room temperature
• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 180g (1¼ cups) plain flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Flavorings

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond essence (optional)
• 150g (1 cup) mixed dried fruits

For Finishing

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 170°C (338°F)
2. Line 20x20cm (8×8 inch) baking pan with parchment paper
3. Bring eggs and butter to room temperature

Making the Batter

1. Cream together:

• Softened butter
• Sugar
  Until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes)

1. Add eggs:

• One at a time
• Beat well after each addition
• Scrape down bowl sides

1. Incorporate:

• Plain yogurt
• Vanilla extract
• Almond essence (if using)

1. Combine dry ingredients:

• Sift flour
• Add baking powder
• Fold into wet mixture

1. Finally:

• Gently fold in dried fruits
• Ensure even distribution

Baking Process

1. Pour batter into prepared pan
2. Level surface gently
3. Bake 25-35 minutes until:

• Golden brown
• Skewer comes out clean
• Edges slightly pull from pan

Finishing

1. Cool in pan for 10 minutes
2. Transfer to wire rack
3. Cool completely
4. Dust with powdered sugar

Professional Tips

• Room temperature ingredients ensure better mixing
• Don’t overmix after adding flour
• Toss dried fruits in flour to prevent sinking
• Check cake at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking

Nutrition Information (per slice)

• Calories: 245
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 20g

Storage Instructions

• Room temperature: 3-4 days in airtight container
• Refrigerated: Up to 1 week
• Freezer: Up to 3 months (wrap well)

Variations

Fruit Options

• Raisins
• Cranberries
• Chopped apricots
• Currants
• Mixed candied peel

Flavor Additions

• Orange zest
• Lemon zest
• Ground cinnamon
• Mixed spice
• Ground nutmeg

Serving Suggestions

• Warm with custard
• With afternoon tea
• As dessert with whipped cream
• Breakfast treat
• Lunchbox addition

Perfect for:

• Tea parties
• Brunch gatherings
• Bake sales
• Gift giving
• Holiday celebrations

This versatile fruit cake combines the richness of a butter cake with the sweet chew of dried fruits, creating a delightful treat that’s both comforting and elegant. Its simplicity makes it perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions.