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Chocolate and Dried Fruit Slice

A delightful Southern-style treat with dried fruit and dark chocolate, perfect for sharing and evoking warm memories of home.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 375 g mixed dried fruit Can include a variety of dried fruits.
  • 125 g slivered almonds Can be substituted with other nuts.
  • 200 g glace cherries, finely chopped Chop small for balanced sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup plain flour, sifted For binding the mixture.
  • 150 g butter, chopped Use unsalted for better control over flavor.
  • 1/2 cup honey Can be substituted with maple syrup.
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten Flax egg can be used as a substitute.
  • 200 g good-quality dark chocolate, broken into pieces Choose a rich dark chocolate for best flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease a 3cm-deep, 18cm x 28cm slab pan and line it with baking paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed dried fruit, slivered almonds, and finely chopped glace cherries. Stir in the sifted plain flour.
Combine Mixtures
  1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped butter and honey. Cook, stirring, for 3 to 4 minutes until the butter melts; allow it to cool slightly.
  2. Add the honey mixture and the lightly beaten egg to the fruit mixture and mix until well combined.
Baking
  1. Spoon the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
  2. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown. Set aside in the pan to cool completely.
Topping
  1. For the topping, place chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on medium for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring every minute until almost melted. Stir until smooth, then spread over the cooled slice.
  2. Allow to set for 2 hours. Cut into pieces and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours until firm.

Notes

Store the slice refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to three months, thawing at room temperature before serving. Tips include using a good-quality dark chocolate and cooling the baked slice completely before adding the topping.