Eggless Fruit Medley Cake

Why This Recipe Works:

Eggless Fruit Medley Cake combines the natural sweetness and flavors of various fruits with a moist, tender crumb. The combination of fresh and dried fruits adds texture and richness, making each bite a delightful experience. The cake is perfect for tea time, brunch, or any celebration.

Ingredients:

Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup plain yogurt (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots, etc.)
• 1 cup mixed fresh fruits (chopped apples, berries, pears, etc.)

Glaze (optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice or orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish:

• Fresh fruit slices
• Chopped nuts (optional)
• Mint leaves (optional)

Directions:

Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

1. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Wet Ingredients:

1. In another large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, oil, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).

Combine Ingredients:

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
2. Fold in the mixed dried fruits and fresh fruits.

Bake the Cake:

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Glaze (optional):

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon or orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Glaze the Cake:

1. Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top of the cake.

Garnish:

1. Garnish with fresh fruit slices, chopped nuts, and mint leaves if desired.

Notes:

• Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• You can adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less powdered sugar.