Category: quick and easy recipe

Fruit and Nut Cake Recipe

A Fruit and Nut Cake is a delightful and flavorful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of dried fruits with the crunchiness of assorted nuts. This cake is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or as a comforting treat with a cup of tea. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through making a delicious Fruit and Nut Cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, dried apricots, dried cherries)
1/2 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, pistachios), chopped
1/4 cup candied citrus peel (optional)
1/4 cup brandy or orange juice
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Glaze:

1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice or brandy
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit and Nut Mixture

Soak the Fruits:

In a medium bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and candied citrus peel (if using) with the brandy or orange juice. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes to plump up the fruits.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat Oven:

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

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and ground cloves. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugars:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Fold in Fruits and Nuts:

Drain any excess liquid from the soaked fruits. Fold the soaked fruits and chopped nuts into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Transfer to Pan:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Cool:

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

Mix the Glaze:

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

Glaze the Cake:

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let it set for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Fruit and Nut Cake
Soak the Fruits: Soaking the dried fruits in brandy or orange juice helps to plump them up and infuse them with extra flavor.
Chop Nuts Evenly: Chop the nuts into similar sizes to ensure even distribution and texture in the cake.
Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Delicious and Healthy Chocolate Banana Oat Loaf

Ingredients:

• • 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup or 240g)
  • 1 cup oat flakes (90g)
  • ¼ cup condensed milk (50g)

• • ½ cup yogurt (150g)
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder (15g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (5g)

• 40g chocolate (1.4 oz), chopped or in chips
• ¼ cup walnuts (30g), roughly chopped (optional)

Directions:

1. 1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease or line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
   2. Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
   3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add condensed milk and yogurt to the mashed bananas and mix until well combined.

1. 1. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in oat flakes, cocoa powder, and baking powder until evenly mixed.
   2. Incorporate Chocolate and Walnuts: Gently fold in chopped chocolate and walnuts.
   3. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

1. Cool and Slice: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Enjoy a slice as a satisfying snack or for breakfast.

• • Top with Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
  • Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
  • Toast slices and spread with almond butter for an extra treat.

Cooking Tips:

• • Use very ripe bananas for optimal sweetness.
  • Ensure even distribution of chocolate and walnuts for a consistent taste.

• Let the loaf cool completely before slicing to ensure it holds together well.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Bananas provide potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber.

• • Oats are rich in beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol.
  • Cocoa powder offers antioxidants that can boost mood.
  • Yogurt adds probiotics and calcium.

• Walnuts contribute healthy fats and protein.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegan: Substitute yogurt with a non-dairy alternative and use a plant-based sweetener.

• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
• Nut-Free: Omit walnuts or replace with seeds if needed.

Nutritional Facts (per slice, based on 10 slices):

• • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 8g

• • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 10g

Storage:

• • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before eating.

How to make delicious cheese and herb scones?

5-Minute Low-Carb Bread: A Quick, Healthy and Satisfying Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 large eggs
• A pinch of salt
• 1 cup (100 g) oat bran (or flaxseed flour if substituting)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 100 ml water
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the  Filling:

• 1/2 small tomato, chopped
• 1 slice BBQ chicken, chopped
• 1 slice mozzarella cheese, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley and chives, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon ricotta or cream cheese (homemade preferred)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, crack the two large eggs and beat them lightly along with a pinch of salt. This will serve as the base for your bread dough. Next, gradually incorporate the oat bran (or flaxseed flour if you’re using a low-carb flour alternative). Stir the mixture continuously to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth and even texture.

After that, slowly add the 100 ml of water and 1 tablespoon of olive oil, stirring gently until the liquid is fully combined with the dry ingredients. Finally, mix in 1 teaspoon of baking powder. The dough should now be well combined, firm, and malleable, which will help it hold its shape while cooking.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

To shape the dough, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. Form the dough into a small loaf-like shape, pressing gently in the center to create a small indentation. This indentation will hold the delicious filling you’ll prepare in the next steps.

Transfer the shaped dough into the microwave-safe dish, and cook on high for about 5 minutes. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the microwave wattage, so keep an eye on it. The result should be a firm loaf that has risen slightly from the baking powder.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the bread is cooking, it’s time to prepare the filling. Start by chopping 1/2 small tomato, 1 slice of BBQ chicken, and 1 slice of mozzarella cheese into small, bite-sized pieces. Add these ingredients to a small bowl along with 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley and chives.

For a creamier texture, mix in 1 tablespoon of ricotta or cream cheese. If you prefer a smoother, richer taste, homemade cream cheese can elevate the dish. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring the filling is well-seasoned and flavorful. Mix everything together until evenly combined.

Step 4: Fill the  Bread

Once the bread has finished cooking in the microwave, carefully remove it and let it cool slightly. Using a sharp knife, slice off the top layer of the bread and gently hollow out a small section in the middle to create a space for the filling.

Now, spoon the prepared filling into the hollowed-out section of the bread. Spread the filling evenly so that each bite is filled with the delicious mix of chicken, mozzarella, tomatoes, herbs, and cream cheese.

Step 5: Crisp it up in the Air Fryer (Optional)

For an extra crispy and golden exterior, transfer the filled bread into an air fryer. Set the fryer to medium heat and cook for about 3-5 minutes until the edges become crisp and the cheese inside is perfectly melted. You can also place the filled bread in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly browned and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

After your bread has crisped up to perfection, remove it from the air fryer or oven and let it cool briefly. Slice it into pieces and serve warm. The combination of the soft, savory bread with the creamy, flavorful filling is sure to impress! This low-carb bread is versatile enough to enjoy for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack throughout the day.

Nutrition Information

This 5-minute low-carb bread recipe yields 1 serving. Below is the approximate nutrition breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 7g
• Net Carbs: 3g

Chocolate-Covered Nut and Seed Energy Balls

Table of Contents

Soft Apple Cookies

Ingredients:

• • Apples: 2 medium, peeled and finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups or 250 g)

• • All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/2 cups (190 g)
  • Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon

• • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g)
  • Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g)

• • Butter: 1/4 cup (55 g), softened
  • Egg: 1 large
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon

• Optional Add-ins: 1/2 cup (50 g) raisins or chopped nuts

Directions:

1. 1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
   2. Prepare Apples: Peel and finely chop the apples. Set aside.

1. 1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
   2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
   3. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples and optional add-ins.

1. 1. Scoop Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are set.
   3. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy the cookies warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Serve with a light drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat.

Cooking Tips:

• • Apple Preparation: Make sure the apples are finely chopped to ensure even distribution and texture in the cookies.

• Butter Consistency: Softened butter is key for a smooth dough. If it’s too cold, it will be difficult to cream with the sugars.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Apples: Provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
  • Cinnamon: Offers anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Dietary Information:

• • Contains Dairy: From butter.
  • Contains Gluten: From flour.
  • Can Be Made Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute.

Nutritional Facts (per cookie):

• • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Protein: 1 g

• • Fat: 5 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 9 g

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• • Soft and Tender: These cookies have a delightful soft texture that melts in your mouth.

• • Apple Flavor: Packed with the natural sweetness and flavor of apples.
  • Spice Infusion: Cinnamon adds a warm, comforting spice to each bite.
  • Easy to Make: Quick preparation and baking process makes these a great option for a fast treat.

 

Ingredients:

• • 80 g (1 cup) rolled oats (gluten-free)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 20 g (3 1/4 tablespoons) almond flour

• • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 5 g (1 teaspoon) baking powder
  • 2 eggs

• • 35 g (4 1/2 tablespoons) erythritol sweetener or sugar
  • 15 g (1/2 oz) melted butter
  • 1 medium carrot, grated

• 1 apple, grated
• Almond flakes (optional, for topping)

Directions:

1. 1. Prepare Dry Ingredients:

      • In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, pinch of salt, cinnamon, and baking powder. Mix well.

   2. Mix Wet Ingredients:

      • • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, erythritol sweetener (or sugar), and melted butter until well combined.

   3. Combine Ingredients:

      • Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated carrot and apple.

1. 1. Prepare Baking Tray:

      • Grease an 18 x 13 cm (7 x 5 inches) baking tray with butter. Pour the batter into the tray and spread it evenly. Sprinkle almond flakes on top, if using.

   2. Bake:

      • • Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

   3. Cool and Serve:

      • Leave the cake to cool in the tray before cutting into pieces. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.

  • Pair with fresh fruit or a cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Tips:

• • Grate the carrot and apple finely for even distribution in the batter.

  • Add raisins or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • High in fiber from the oats and carrots.

  • Provides vitamins and minerals from the apples and almond flour.

Dietary Information:

• • Gluten-free (ensure oats are certified gluten-free)

  • Low in added sugars (if using erythritol)

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• • Calories: 150

  • Protein: 4 g

• • Carbohydrates: 18 g

  • Dietary Fiber: 3 g

  • Sugars: 6 g

• Fat: 6 g

Storage:

• • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.

APPLE CAKE: No sugar, no flour, just mix the ingredients and immediately put it to bake

Welcome to a recipe that celebrates the natural sweetness and versatility of apples! In this article, we’ll explore how to create a mouthwatering apple-based dish without the need for sugar or flour. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body with this wholesome treat.

Ingredients

• 3 large apples (preferably softer varieties)
• Juice of half a lemon
• 100 ml of water
• 80 g of raisins
• 80 g of chopped walnuts
• 1 pinch of salt
• 3 eggs
• 100 ml of vegetable oil
• 220 g of oat flakes
• 1 bag baking powder (10 g)

Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing the Apples

Start by giving your apples a good wash. If needed, peel them, then slice them thinly into bite-sized pieces. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over them to prevent browning and mix well.

Adding the Goodies

Toss in the raisins, giving them a soak in orange juice or rum for an extra flavor boost if desired. Add the water and stir. Then, sprinkle in the chopped walnuts for that irresistible crunch.

Mixing the Batter

In a separate bowl, crack open those eggs and beat them lightly. Pour them into the apple mixture along with the vegetable oil. Give it all a good stir until everything is evenly combined.

Adding the Final Touches

Now, it’s time to add our dry ingredients. Sprinkle in the oat flakes, followed by the baking powder. Mix gently until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.

Baking to Perfection

Prepare your cake mold by greasing it with butter. Pour the batter in gradually, ensuring it’s evenly spread out. Pop it into a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Serving Up

Once baked, allow your cake to cool slightly before dusting it with powdered sugar. Slice it up, serve, and watch it disappear within seconds!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this apple-based recipe is a testament to the natural sweetness and versatility of this beloved fruit. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a delicious treat that’s both wholesome and satisfying.

Quick and Easy Peach Cream Cheese Cake

Ingredients

Cake:

• • 3 eggs, separated
  • 50 grams (1/4 cup) sugar

• • 3 egg whites
  • 100 grams (1/2 cup) sugar
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

• 170 grams (1 1/4 cup) all-purpose flour

Peach Cream Cheese Frosting:

• • 250 grams (9 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 100 grams (3/4 cup) powdered sugar

• • 200 grams (7 oz) peaches in syrup, drained and chopped
  • 100 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
  • 50 ml (1/4 cup) condensed milk

• 1 teaspoon powdered sugar (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Line a 27 x 18 cm (10″ x 7″) baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures your cake will come out easily and prevents it from sticking to the pan.

Prepare the Cake Batter

2. 2. Separate the Eggs: Carefully separate the egg yolks from the egg whites. Place the egg yolks in one bowl and the egg whites in another.

2. 2. Whisk Egg Yolks: In the bowl with the egg yolks, add 50 grams (1/4 cup) sugar. Use a whisk or electric mixer to beat the yolks and sugar together until the mixture is pale and well combined.
   3. Beat Egg Whites: In the second bowl, add the lemon juice to the egg whites. Begin whisking until the egg whites start to froth. Gradually add 100 grams (1/2 cup) sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to whisk on high speed. Continue until stiff peaks form, which usually takes about 6-7 minutes. The egg whites should be glossy and hold their shape.
   4. Combine Gently: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites. The goal is to keep as much air in the batter as possible to ensure a light and fluffy cake.

2. Add Flour: Sift the flour into the batter in small batches, gently folding it in with each addition. Ensure there are no streaks of flour left in the batter.

Bake the Cake

7. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Prepare the Frosting

8. 8. Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the chopped peaches, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

8. Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream and condensed milk. Whisk until stiff peaks form. This mixture should be thick and hold its shape well.
9. Combine Frosting: Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. This creates a light, fluffy frosting that complements the cake perfectly.

Cool and Frost

11. 11. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before attempting to frost it. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures it spreads evenly.

11. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the peach cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to create a smooth finish.
12. Garnish: For an extra touch of sweetness and presentation, dust the top of the frosted cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Serve

14. 14. Slice and Serve: Slice the cake into desired portions and serve immediately. Enjoy the soft, fluffy texture of the cake paired with the creamy, fruity frosting.

Tips

• • For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar in the cake batter.
  • Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg yolk mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
  • If you don’t have peaches, substitute with other fruits like pineapple, strawberries, or blueberries.

• Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Creamy Banana Dessert

Ingredients:

• • 3 ripe bananas (about 300 grams)
  • 40 grams (2 tbsp) butter

• • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Optional: 1/3 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
  • 2 egg yolks

• • 25 grams (2 tbsp) cornstarch
  • 200 milliliters (4/5 cup) milk
  • 250 milliliters (1 cup) chilled cream (33-38%)

Directions:

• • Mash Bananas:
    • Mash the bananas until smooth and set aside.

• • Cook Bananas:
    • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mashed bananas and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
    • If using, add turmeric for a vibrant color and mix well.

• • Prepare Milk Mixture:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until fully combined.
  • Combine Mixtures:
    • • Pour the milk mixture into the saucepan with the bananas, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.

     

  • Finish Dessert:
    • Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Fold in the chilled cream until the dessert is smooth and creamy.

• Chill:
  • Transfer to serving dishes and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve chilled as a stand-alone dessert.
  • Garnish with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.
  • Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.

• Pair with a light cookie or shortbread for a delightful dessert combination.

Cooking Tips:

• • Banana Ripeness: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.

• • Avoid Curdling: Ensure to whisk the egg yolk mixture well to avoid curdling when combined with hot ingredients.
  • Consistent Stirring: Stir constantly when adding the milk mixture to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
  • Cool Before Cream: Let the mixture cool slightly before folding in the cream to maintain its texture.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Rich in Potassium: Bananas are a good source of potassium, which is essential for heart health.
  • Creamy Texture: The addition of cream provides a rich, satisfying texture without being overly heavy.

• Natural Sweetness: Bananas add natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars.

Dietary Information:

• • Contains Dairy: Includes milk and cream.

• Contains Eggs: Uses egg yolks for thickening.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, estimated):

• • Calories: 300

• • Protein: 3 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 30 grams
  • Fat: 20 grams

• Fiber: 2 grams

Storage:

• • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• • Simple Ingredients: Uses basic ingredients that are easy to find and work with.

• Smooth and Creamy: The combination of banana and cream creates a luxuriously smooth texture.
• Customizable: Add flavors or toppings to suit your taste preferences.
• Easy Preparation: Minimal steps and cooking time make it a straightforward dessert option.