Pumpkin Spice Cake with Raisins and Cranberries

This delightful pumpkin spice cake combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the tanginess of cranberries and the chewiness of raisins. The subtle crunch from cashew nuts adds a delightful textural contrast, while citrus notes from an orange provide a refreshing zing. With cinnamon and vanilla elevating the aroma, this cake promises a rich tapestry of flavors. It's a perfect bake for autumn gatherings, afternoon teas, or as a unique holiday dessert. Taking you on a culinary adventure, this recipe blends diverse textures and flavors harmoniously. The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible even for those new to baking. Enjoy this cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness. Serve it warm to appreciate the melded flavors at their best!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 400 g pumpkin (grated)
• 200 g raisins
• 100 g dried cranberries
• 100 g cashew nuts
• 3 eggs
• 350 g flour
• 200 g butter
• 300 g sugar

Spices:

• Vanilla sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon baking powder

Additional Flavor:

• Zest and juice from one orange
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Butter (for greasing the pan)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 80 minutes (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Melt the Butter: Start by gently melting the butter until it's just soft, not completely liquid.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: Use a mixer to beat the butter with sugar until you achieve a fluffy white texture.
3. Grate the Pumpkin: In a large bowl, grate the pumpkin to create a fine consistency.
4. Add Dry Fruits and Nuts: Mix in the raisins, dried cranberries, and cashew nuts with the grated pumpkin.
5. Introduce Citrus: Grate the orange zest into the mixture and squeeze in the fresh juice for a burst of citrus flavor.
6. Mix with Eggs: Crack the eggs into the bowl and combine them thoroughly with the mixture.
7. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Pour in the creamed butter, ensuring it blends well with the pumpkin mix.
8. Flavor with Spices: Add cinnamon and vanilla sugar for warmth and sweetness.
9. Leaven and Combine: Sprinkle in the baking powder and gradually sift in the flour while stirring gently.
10. Achieve a Smooth Batter: Continuously mix the ingredients until you have a smooth, homogeneous batter.
11. Prepare the Cake Pan: Grease a cake mold liberally with butter to prevent sticking.
12. Pour and Spread: Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
13. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 200°C (392°F) for a consistent cooking temperature.
14. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes.
15. Check for Doneness: After an hour, insert a skewer to ensure it comes out clean.
16. Cool Down: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
17. Slice It Up: Once cooled, gently remove the cake from the pan and cut it into portions.
18. Dust with Sugar: Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for a sweet finish.
19. Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve slices while they are slightly warm.
20. Enjoy Your Creation: Relish every bite of this flavor-packed cake!

Tips

• Substitutions: Almonds can replace cashew nuts if desired.
• Moisture: Ensure not to overbake the cake to keep it moist.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a dash of nutmeg for a spicier aroma.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 60g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version.
• Sugar Alternatives: Substitute sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a healthier choice.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with: A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Beverage: Accompany with a cup of hot coffee or herbal tea for an added treat.

Best Places

• Patisserie Valerie - Famous for its exquisite pastries and desserts. Location: 44 Old Compton St, London, UK.
• Café Landtmann - A classic Viennese café with a rich history. Location: Universitätsring 4, Vienna, Austria.
• E5 Bakehouse - Known for its handmade breads and cakes. Location: 395 Mentmore Terrace, London, UK.
• Breads Bakery - Celebrated for its exceptional babkas. Location: 18 E 16th St, New York, USA.
• Tatte Bakery - Offers a Mediterranean twist on classic pastries. Location: 70 Charles St, Boston, USA.
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• Dominique Ansel Bakery - Home of the original Cronut. Location: 189 Spring St, New York, USA.
• Pastelería Escribà - A vibrant spot for sweet treats. Location: Gran Via de Les Corts Catalanes, 546, Barcelona, Spain.
• Miette - Offers classic American pastries with a French flair. Location: Ferry Building Marketplace, San Francisco, USA.
• Café de la Paix - Iconic for its elegant ambiance and delicious pastries. Location: 5 Place de l'Opéra, Paris, France.