Moist Fruit Cake (nuts are optional)
Fruit Cake is a rich flavorful cake packed with dried fruits, nuts, and often flavored with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas, or dried apricots)
½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans, or cashews) (optional)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
4 large eggs
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp ground cloves (optional)
½ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup orange juice (or apple juice)
¼ cup brandy or rum (optional)
1 tbsp orange zest
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tbsp milk (if needed)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan (or a loaf pan if preferred).
Soak the dried fruit: In a small bowl, soak the dried fruit in the orange juice (and brandy/rum if using) for at least 30 minutes to plump them up. Drain any excess liquid.
Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract, orange zest, and lemon zest.
Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. If the batter feels too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to loosen it up.
Add fruit and nuts: Gently fold in the soaked dried fruit and chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan: Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the cake starts to brown too quickly, cover the top loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.
Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional:
For a moist finish, you can brush the cake with a little more brandy or rum once it's out of the oven and still warm.
Enjoy your Fruit & Nut Cake with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s perfect for festive occasions or just a cozy treat!