Never Fail Fruit Cake


  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Optional: Zest of 1 orange or lemon (for extra brightness)

Optional Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1–2 teaspoons orange juice or liqueur (rum, brandy, etc.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soak the Fruits

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the dried fruits, chopped nuts, and orange juice (or liqueur). Stir well to coat the fruits and nuts evenly.
  2. Cover the bowl and let the mixture soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

2. Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

4. Make the Batter

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract (and optional citrus zest). Mix until smooth.
  3. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.
  4. Gently fold in the soaked fruit and nut mixture until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

5. Bake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few crumbs are okay, but no wet batter).
  3. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with aluminum foil halfway through baking.

6. Cool and Glaze

  1. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
  2. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the loaf out of the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  3. Optional: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice (or liqueur) to make a glaze. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness.

7. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Slice the cake and enjoy every bite of this moist, flavorful, and indulgent Never Fail Fruit Cake!
  2. Perfect as a standalone dessert or paired with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
  3. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg make a noticeable difference in flavor.
  • Add Liquor: Substitute part of the soaking liquid with rum, brandy, or bourbon for a boozy twist.
  • Switch Fruits: Use your favorite dried fruits like figs, dates, or mangoes for variety.
  • Toast the Nuts: Toasting the nuts before adding them enhances their flavor and crunch.

Why This Recipe Works

This Never Fail Fruit Cake combines the moist, dense texture of a traditional fruitcake with the vibrant flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices into a dessert that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The soaking process ensures the fruits are plump and flavorful, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone treat or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced baking skills.

Conclusion: A Treat Everyone Will Love

Whether you’re craving something festive and flavorful, looking for a way to elevate your holiday spread, or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, this Never Fail Fruit Cake is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this fruitcake might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨


 

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