Cakes are often elevated with unique additions like berries, citrus glazes, or even a dash of alcohol. But chef Ian Haste, known for his innovative approach to cooking, has a quirky twist that few may have considered: swapping butter for Primula cheese in a fruit cake recipe.
Haste, a former gastro-pub chef and current Men’s Health writer, has been sharing his culinary expertise on his popular YouTube channel, Haste’s Kitchen, since 2014. His latest creation, a simple yet delicious fruit loaf, is made even more memorable with the surprising addition of creamy Primula cheese.
Speaking in collaboration with Primula, Haste emphasizes the joy of experimentation in the kitchen: “With so much pressure on what we should be eating, it’s easy to lose sight of the joy that comes from simply experimenting with different flavors.”
This recipe departs from the traditional fruit cake, which is typically served with butter. Instead, Haste recommends spreading Primula light cheese over warm, sliced loaf, creating a delightful contrast of sweet and savory flavors.
Fruit Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
* 450g self-raising flour
* 125g caster sugar
* One tsp baking powder
* One tsp mixed spice or cinnamon
* 125g unsalted butter, room temperature
* 450g mixed dried fruit
* 30g glacier cherries, quartered
* One tsp bicarbonate of soda
* 250ml milk
* Two tbsp honey
* 80g Primula light cheese
Method:
1. Preheat oven to 160°C. Grease a standard-sized loaf tin and line with baking parchment.
2. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, mixed spice, honey, and bicarbonate of soda in a large bowl.
3. Rub in the butter with the dry ingredients to create breadcrumbs. Stir in the mixed fruit and then add the milk, mixing everything thoroughly.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes. Check after 30 minutes and cover with tin foil if the top is browning too quickly.
5. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for a while before transferring it to a serving plate. Slice and serve with a generous spread of Primula light cheese, as recommended by chef Ian Haste.
This recipe is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most unexpected flavor combinations can create truly delightful culinary experiences. So, embrace the quirky and try this unique fruit cake recipe. You might just be surprised at how much you enjoy it.
