Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake is the ideal dessert for those who crave a classic treat with a twist. This recipe is designed for success, making it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. With a delightful mix of dried fruits, spices, and nuts, this cake is not just satisfying to eat; it also fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that evokes warm memories of family gatherings.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Total Time: 105 minutes
Servings: 10
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 350
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 150mg

Why Make Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake is not just simple to make; it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients that bring both flavor and nutrition. The combination of dried fruits and nuts provides a good source of fiber and protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence. This fruit cake is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite nuts or dried fruits, making it a great option for different occasions, from holidays to simple family dinners.

How to Make Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Step by Step

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
4 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, chopped dates)
1/2 cup chopped candied cherries
1/2 cup chopped candied pineapple
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup orange juice

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and line a 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing gently to combine.
6. Fold in the chopped walnuts, mixed dried fruit, candied cherries, and candied pineapple.
7. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange juice until the batter is evenly moistened.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

For a delightful dessert experience, serve Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a rich honey glaze or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce for an extra touch of indulgence. A side of fresh fruit salad can add a refreshing contrast to the cake, enhancing its flavors.

How to Store Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

To store this delicious cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’d like to keep it longer, place it in an airtight container and freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply allow it to thaw at room temperature and warm it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for Cooking Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

• Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Substitute different dried fruits based on your preference—cranberries or apricots work well too.
• For a more intense flavor, allow the cake to sit for a day or two before serving.
• You can add citrus zest for a fresh twist.
• Experiment by using different nuts like pecans or hazelnuts for varied texture.

Delicious Variations of Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

For those wanting to add a little spice, consider stirring in some grated ginger for an extra kick. You can also try a citrus version by incorporating lemon or lime zest, which brightens the overall flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, replace regular flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

Never-Fail Old Fashioned Fruit Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a delicious tradition waiting to happen. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, there’s no reason you shouldn’t try baking it today. Enjoy the warmth and joy this delightful fruit cake brings to your table!