Heavenly Moist Fruitcake!

why make this recipe

This Heavenly Moist Fruitcake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a family gathering, or just want to enjoy a sweet dessert, this fruitcake offers a rich blend of flavors and textures. It is not only moist and delicious but also packed with fruits and nuts, making it a wholesome option that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make and ideal for sharing with friends and family.

how to make Heavenly Moist Fruitcake

Ingredients

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup lemon juice
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup candied orange peel
• 1 cup dried cherries
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup honey

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender crumb.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the orange and lemon juice.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix!
6. Stir in the walnuts, raisins, candied orange peel, and dried cherries.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the fruitcake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

how to serve Heavenly Moist Fruitcake

Once the Heavenly Moist Fruitcake has cooled completely, you can slice it and serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for a simple presentation. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.

how to store Heavenly Moist Fruitcake

Store any leftover fruitcake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, wrap the fruitcake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the refrigerator. This can extend its life for several weeks. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

tips to make Heavenly Moist Fruitcake

• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
• Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Let the fruitcake cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
• For even more flavor, you can soak the dried fruits in orange juice or your favorite liqueur overnight before adding them to the batter.

variation

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits. You could use almonds, pecans, or even dried apricots. Adjust the spices according to your taste for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this fruitcake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this fruitcake a few days in advance. It actually tastes better as it sits, allowing the flavors to meld.

Q: Can I use a different type of juice?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the orange and lemon juice with apple or pineapple juice for a different flavor.

Q: How can I tell when the fruitcake is done baking?
A: You can check if the fruitcake is done by inserting a wooden skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

Heavenly Moist Fruitcake!

A delightful, rich, and incredibly moist fruitcake packed with an abundance of dried fruits and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or a special treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 500 g Mixed dried fruit
• 100 g Candied cherries
• 200 g Sultanas
• 125 ml Brandy or rum (or orange juice)
• 250 g All-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Baking powder
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 2 tsp Mixed spice
• 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 tsp Ground nutmeg
• 200 g Unsalted butter
• 200 g Brown sugar
• 4 Large eggs at room temperature
• 1 tbsp Molasses
• Orange zest from one orange
• 100 g Chopped almonds
• 100 g Chopped walnuts

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Loaf pan
• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons
• Parchment paper

Method

 

Preparation

1. Combine all dried fruits and candied cherries in a bowl with brandy/rum; let them soak overnight or for several hours to plump up.

Baking

1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F) and prepare a 9-inch loaf pan by greasing and lining with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and all spices; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in molasses and orange zest.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Gently fold in the soaked fruits and chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

Cooling and Storage

1. Let the fruitcake cool completely in the pan before inverting onto a wire rack.
2. Once fully cooled, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, storing in an airtight container for best results.

Notes

For extra moisture and flavor, brush the cooled fruitcake with more brandy or orange juice over several days. Store tightly wrapped to maintain freshness.