The Best Homemade Fruit Cake Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade fruit cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and joy to your kitchen. It’s easy to make and filled with flavorful ingredients that make it truly special.
- You’ll love how moist and rich it turns out, thanks to the perfect balance of fruits and spices.
- It’s a versatile dessert that can be customized with your favorite dried fruits and nuts.
- Plus, it fills your home with the comforting aroma of baked goodness, making it feel like a celebration.
Recipe
Fruit cake is a classic dessert packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, perfect for holidays or special occasions. This homemade version is rich, moist, and full of flavor, making it a favorite for gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, candied peel)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ cup orange juice or brandy (for soaking fruits)
Instructions:
- Soak the dried fruits in orange juice or brandy overnight for better flavor.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9-inch loaf pan.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Sift flour, baking powder, and spices together, then fold into the butter mixture.
- Stir in soaked fruits (drained) and chopped nuts until well combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes:
- For a richer taste, brush the cake with additional brandy after baking.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer shelf life.
Equipment:
- 9-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Wire rack
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time)
- Cooking time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Cuisine:
– British
Serving:
– 10-12 slices
Nutrition
This homemade fruit cake is packed with nutrients from the dried fruits and nuts. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 30 g |
What To Serve With It
If you’re wondering what to serve with your fruit cake, classic pairings like whipped cream or a cup of tea are always a hit. I also love getting creative, like topping it with a drizzle of caramel or pairing it with a tangy cheese platter. Let me share some ideas that’ll make your cake shine even brighter!
Classic Pairing Options
When you’re serving up a slice of homemade fruit cake, you’ll want something that balances its rich, spiced flavors without stealing the spotlight. A cup of hot tea, like Earl Grey or chai, is my go-to—it’s cozy and complements the cake perfectly. Coffee works too, especially if it’s lightly sweetened. For a festive touch, a glass of sherry or port wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the fruity notes. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a smooth eggnog or warm apple cider does the trick. To conclude, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a cool, creamy contrast.
Creative Serving Ideas
Ever thought about making your homemade fruit cake the star of the table with some fun twists? I like to slice it thin and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it’s a simple yet elegant combo. For a festive touch, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top or sprinkle toasted nuts for crunch. Pair it with a cup of spiced tea or eggnog during the holidays. You could even turn it into mini trifles by layering chunks with custard and berries. Trust me, these little touches make it unforgettable!
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