Heavenly Moist Fruitcake Recipe

Here’s a recipe for a Heavenly Moist Fruitcake, a rich and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, this fruitcake is moist and irresistibly delicious.

Heavenly Moist Fruitcake Recipe

Ingredients (Makes 1 loaf or an 8-inch round cake):

For the Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup orange juice (or apple juice)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped apricots, cherries, or pineapple)
• 1/4 cup candied peel (optional)
• 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional, for soaking)

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1/4 cup apricot jam, warmed
• 1 tbsp water

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mix

1. If using alcohol, soak the dried fruits in brandy or rum overnight (or for at least 2 hours) to plump them up. Drain excess liquid before using.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Grease and line a loaf pan or an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

Step 3: Make the Batter

1. In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the orange juice and vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. Fold in the chopped nuts, dried fruits, and candied peel (if using).

Step 4: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 75-90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 20 minutes of baking.

Step 5: Add the Glaze (Optional)

1. Warm the apricot jam with water in a small saucepan or microwave.
2. Brush the warm glaze over the top of the cake for a shiny finish.

Step 6: Cool and Store

1. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing.
2. For best results, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest for 1-2 days before serving to allow the flavors to deepen.

Tips for the Perfect Fruitcake:

• Substitute alcohol with orange juice or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
• Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a deeper flavor.
• Store the cake wrapped in parchment paper and foil for up to 2 weeks in a cool place or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Enjoy your Heavenly Moist Fruitcake! A slice pairs wonderfully with tea, coffee, or a dollop of whipped cream.