Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake Recipe

Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake Recipe feels rich, warm and deeply comforting. I first baked this cake on a rainy afternoon. The kitchen smelled like butter and citrus.

It felt calm and old-fashioned. Making Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake Recipe at home connects you to tradition. This cake is not flashy. It is honest and full of flavor.

Learning how to make Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake is gentle and rewarding. With simple steps and patience, you create a cake that feels truly special.

Why I Love Making This Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake

I love making this cake because it slows me down. It asks for care, not rush. The fruit soaks and softens beautifully.

The almonds on top feel classic and proud. This cake reminds me of afternoon tea and quiet talks.

It tastes better the next day, which feels magical. I enjoy slicing it thick and sharing it. This cake feels like history baked into every bite.

Equipment List

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Zester or grater
• 8-inch round cake tin
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake
• Servings: 10 slices
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Total Time: 115 minutes
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: British
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake Recipe

• Unsalted butter – 200 grams, softened
• Brown sugar – 200 grams
• Eggs – 4 large
• All-purpose flour – 225 grams
• Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
• Ground almonds – 50 grams
• Orange zest – from 1 orange
• Lemon zest – from 1 lemon
• Mixed dried fruit – 300 grams
• Blanched almonds – 50 grams
• Milk – 2 tablespoons
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Tin

Line cake tin with parchment paper. Grease lightly to prevent sticking.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 160°C. Keep temperature steady for slow baking.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy.

4. Add the Eggs

Add eggs one at a time. Beat well after each addition.

5. Add Zest and Vanilla

Stir in orange zest, lemon zest and vanilla extract gently.

6. Mix Dry Ingredients

In separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder and ground almonds.

7. Combine Batter

Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture slowly and carefully.

8. Add Dried Fruit

Fold mixed dried fruit into batter evenly.

9. Adjust Texture

Add milk slowly if batter feels too thick.

10. Fill the Tin

Spoon batter into prepared tin. Smooth the top gently.

11. Add Almond Topping

Arrange blanched almonds in circles on top.

12. Bake Slowly

Bake for ninety minutes. Check halfway and cover if browning.

13. Test for Doneness

Insert skewer into center. It should come out clean.

14. Cool the Cake

Cool in tin for ten minutes. Transfer to rack.

15. Rest Before Slicing

Let cake rest fully before cutting for best texture.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Soak dried fruit overnight for extra softness.
• Use whiskey or orange juice for soaking fruit.
• Replace mixed fruit with raisins and currants.
• Add warm spices like nutmeg or cinnamon.
• Use almond extract for stronger nut flavor.
• Bake one day ahead for deeper taste.
• Store wrapped for moist texture.

History or Fun Fact About the Dish

Dundee Cake comes from Scotland. It dates back to the nineteenth century. The cake became famous for its almond topping. It was once served to royalty.

Unlike heavy fruitcakes, it uses less fruit. This makes it lighter and easier to enjoy. The Hairy Bikers helped bring this classic back into modern kitchens with love and respect.

Pairings & Complementary Recipes

This cake pairs beautifully with hot tea. Earl Grey works very well. It also tastes lovely with coffee.

Serve it with butter for tradition. A spoon of whipped cream adds softness. It fits nicely with simple biscuits or shortbread.

Occasion or Event Ideas

Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake suits many moments. Serve it at afternoon tea. Bring it to family gatherings. Bake it for holidays. It works well for birthdays too.

It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift. This cake always feels meaningful and special.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store wrapped in parchment and foil.
• Keep at room temperature.
• Lasts up to one week.
• Flavor improves after one day.
• Do not refrigerate.
• Warm slices gently if desired.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	420 kcal
Fat	22 g
Carbohydrates	48 g
Protein	7 g
Fiber	3 g

Health Benefits

This cake provides energy from natural sugars and nuts. Almonds offer healthy fats and protein. Citrus zest adds aroma and freshness. Homemade baking avoids preservatives.

Enjoyed in moderation, it supports joy and comfort. Baking also helps reduce stress. Sharing homemade cake builds connection and warmth.

FAQs about Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake Recipe

What makes Dundee Cake different from fruitcake?
Dundee Cake uses less dried fruit. It feels lighter and less dense. The almond topping is its signature feature.

Can I make Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake without almonds?
Yes, you can skip almonds. The cake still tastes rich. You may decorate with oats or leave plain.

Why does my cake crack on top?
Slow baking helps prevent cracks. Oven may be too hot. Cover top with foil if browning early.

Can I freeze Dundee Cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze. Thaw at room temperature. Flavor stays good and moist.

How long should I wait before slicing the cake?
Wait until fully cooled. Resting improves texture. Slicing too early can cause crumbling.

Final Thoughts

Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake Recipe is rich, calm and timeless. It brings history into your kitchen gently. Once you learn how to make Hairy Bikers Dundee Cake, it becomes a trusted bake.

With simple ingredients and care, you create something meaningful. Serve it slowly, share warmly and enjoy every traditional bite.