Description
Discover how to make a classic fruit cake that is moist, flavorful, and packed with dried fruits and nuts. Perfect for holidays, gifts, or cozy treats, this recipe combines warm spices, tender crumb, and a touch of homemade love for a truly festive dessert.
Ingredients
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2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, cherries)
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1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup brown sugar
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3 large eggs
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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1/2 cup orange juice (or apple juice)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch pan and line with parchment paper.
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Soak dried fruits in orange juice for at least 30 minutes. Drain. Chop nuts if needed.
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Beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
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Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
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Gradually fold dry ingredients into butter mixture.
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Fold in fruits and nuts gently.
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Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake 60-75 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack. Optional: brush with juice or brandy for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes to overnight
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American