Berry Happy

The season for berries is still months away from here, but thanks to international shipping we can already enjoy some of those luscious fruits delivered fresh from countries with a better climate... So whenever I score at least a tiny basket from our local grocer, it is hardly possible for me not to take advantage of it. The easier the recipe, the better, and this flavourful Fruit Cake definitely does fall into such a category!

Dough:

5 eggs, slightly beaten

100g fresh yeast, cut into small cubes (yes, I'm talking about that weird, solid substance...)

1 1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 cup oil

1 cup milk (mixed with a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract)

5 cups all-purppose flour

1 cup berries (or any other fruits you like!)

Layer all the ingredients in a large bowl in order they've been listed. Do not stir them at this point, I repeat, do not stir! Cover with a plastic wrap and let sit for three hours at room temperature. During this time, apart from the yeast becoming slightly foamy, nothing spectacular is supposed to happen. Once you've waited long enough, use a wooden spoon to mix everything thoroughly until there are no lumps visible. Transfer the prepared dough to a large greased and dusted baking pan. Sprinkle with berries (or other fruits of your choice) and some streussel. Bake until slightly golden on top and toothpick inserted comes out clean. Oh... and enjoy the most mouth-watering smell which will surely flow through your house while the cake's in the oven...

Streusel:

1 cup flour

1 cup granulated white sugar

1/2 cup melted and cooled butter

Just toss all the ingredients with a spoon until large clumps form.