This classic fruitcake is sure to add a little warmth to your table as a holiday treat.
Ingredients
- Fruit & Nuts
- 1 cup chopped candied fruit (mixed peel, cherries, pineapple)
- ½ cup raisins or golden raisins
- ½ cup dried cranberries or chopped dates
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well)
- Batter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Optional (for moisture & flavor)
- ¼ cup orange juice or apple juice
Instructions
1. Preheat and prep
Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the batter
Cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla.
3. Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, spices, baking powder and salt together.
4. Bring everything together
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the batter. Stir in the fruit, nuts, and optional juice.
5. Bake
Spoon the batter into the pan and smooth the top. Bake for 75–90 minutes, covering loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
6. Cool and serve
Cool completely in the pan, then remove and serve with coffee or tea for a delicious holiday dessert.
