Irish Cake

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour

• Cooling Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

• Servings: 10-12 slices

 What Is Irish Cake?

Irish Cake, often referred to as Irish Tea Cake or Irish Spiced Cake, is a rustic, dense-yet-soft cake traditionally made with basic ingredients such as flour, butter, sugar, dried fruits, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Many Irish cakes are made to complement a hot cup of tea or coffee and don’t always include frosting, letting the wholesome ingredients speak for themselves.

This particular version combines elements of both a tea cake and a fruit cake, balanced with subtle spices and a touch of sweetness that isn’t overpowering. It’s perfect for all seasons and pairs beautifully with Irish cream or butter.

 Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• ¼ tsp ground cloves

• ½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk

Add-ins:

• 1½ cups (180g) mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants)

• ¼ cup (30g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

• 2 tbsp Irish whiskey or strong brewed black tea (optional but traditional)

 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

• Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan or loaf tin with parchment paper.

• Soak your dried fruit in Irish whiskey or tea for about 15–20 minutes while preparing the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together:

• Flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)

Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes). This process adds air to the batter and gives the cake a tender texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

• Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next.

• Add the vanilla extract and mix for another 30 seconds.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Add half of the flour mixture into the butter mixture, then half of the buttermilk.

• Mix gently. Repeat with the remaining flour mixture and buttermilk.

• Do not overmix. Just stir until combined.

Step 6: Fold in Fruits and Nuts

• Drain any excess liquid from the soaked dried fruit.

• Gently fold in the dried fruit and chopped nuts (if using).

Step 7: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin.

• Smooth the top with a spatula.

• Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

• Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

• Once cooled, dust lightly with powdered sugar or serve plain with a side of whipped cream or butter.

 Serving Suggestions

Irish Cake is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas for serving:

• Traditional: With a cup of strong Irish breakfast tea or coffee.

• Festive: Topped with a dollop of whipped cream or custard sauce.

• Modern Twist: Serve with a drizzle of Irish cream liqueur.

• Toasted: A thick slice toasted with a bit of butter makes for a delicious breakfast treat.

 Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Refrigerate: Keeps well for up to 7 days.

• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

 Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approximate)

Note: Nutrition can vary slightly based on the brand of ingredients and portion size.