Fermanagh Fudge Cake

Introduction to Fermanagh Fudge Cake

The Fermanagh Fudge Cake is a rich, chocolaty dessert originating from County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland. Known for its luxurious and dense texture, this cake has been a staple in Irish households for many decades. Its history dates back to traditional Irish baking practices where wholesome ingredients created hearty desserts, perfect for celebrations and teatime treats. The Fermanagh Fudge Cake has evolved over time with varying recipes, but it remains a cherished indulgence for chocolate lovers.

Ingredients

To make a delectable Fermanagh Fudge Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• Butter - 250g, unsalted
• Dark Chocolate - 200g, minimum 70% cocoa solids
• Caster Sugar - 300g
• Eggs - 4 large, free-range
• Plain Flour - 150g
• Baking Powder - 1 teaspoon
• Cocoa Powder - 50g
• Milk - 100ml
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - a pinch

Preparation

Preparing the Baking Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease a 20cm round cake tin with some butter and line the base with parchment paper. This will ensure that your Fermanagh Fudge Cake doesn’t stick and can be easily removed after baking.

Melting the Chocolate Mixture

In a heatproof bowl, add the dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Place the bowl over a pan of gently simmering water, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water. Stir occasionally until the chocolate and butter have completely melted. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sieve together the plain flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. This helps to ensure there are no lumps and that all dry ingredients are well combined.

Combining Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and caster sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. Add the melted chocolate mixture in gradually, folding it in to keep the batter light. Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, and gently fold again until well combined.

Assembling the Cake

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients mixture, ensuring a smooth and consistent batter. Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smooth the top with a spatula, and tap it gently to remove any trapped air bubbles.

Cooking Process

Place the cake tin in your preheated oven and allow it to bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. To ensure perfect timing, set a cooking timer to remind you to check on the cake as it bakes. Baking times may vary depending on your oven.

Finishing Touches

Once cooked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 15 minutes. Carefully remove it from the tin and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This decadent Fermanagh Fudge Cake can be enjoyed as is or with some additional accompaniments. Consider serving it with a dollop of fresh cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a light dusting of icing sugar. You can also pair it with fresh berries for a tart contrast that highlights the richness of the chocolate.

Conclusion

The Fermanagh Fudge Cake offers a taste of Irish heritage with every bite. Its rich chocolate flavor and moist texture make it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging in it alone or sharing it with loved ones, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Remember to enjoy the process of baking this classic and historical cake, from melting the chocolate to taking that first bite of luscious Fermanagh Fudge Cake goodness.