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Fruit Cake

This delightful fruit cake recipe is perfect for celebrations, bringing joy and flavor to every gathering. A symbol of tradition, it's not just delicious but also easy to make!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 5 hours
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the fruit mix
  • 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, cranberries) Choose your favorite mix.
  • 1 cup alcohol (brandy, rum, or orange juice) Use orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
For the cake batter
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure it is at room temperature.
  • 1 cup brown sugar Can be packed lightly for a richer flavor.
  • 3 large eggs At room temperature for better mixing.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Sifted for a lighter cake.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Ensures the cake rises well.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon For warm spice flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg Freshly grated for best flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) Optional: for added texture.
  • 1 each zest of one orange and one lemon For a citrusy zing!

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pre-soak the mixed dried fruits in a bowl with your chosen alcohol, cover with plastic wrap, and let sit overnight.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs one by one, ensuring they are well combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground spices, and salt.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  6. Gently fold in the soaked dried fruits, chopped nuts, and citrus zest.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and pour the batter into a greased and floured cake pan.
  2. Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Enjoy
  1. Serve a slice with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.

Notes

Customize the recipe with additional spices or flavor extracts. Wrap the cake well for storage; it gets better with age.