Homemade Fruit Cake Recipe

Fruit cake is a timeless dessert, rich with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices. This homemade version is moist, flavorful, and perfect for celebrations or holiday gatherings. Unlike store-bought fruit cakes, this recipe balances sweetness with a deep, caramelized flavor, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Fruit Mixture:

• 1 ½ cups dried pineapple, chopped
• 1 ½ cups raisins
• 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1 ½ cups dates, chopped
• ¾ cup rum or apple juice (for soaking)
• 2 cups toasted nuts (walnuts or pecans)

For the Cake Batter:

• 16 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons black cocoa powder
• ¼ cup boiled cider or maple syrup
• ½ cup apple juice

For the Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons rum or brandy (optional)
• ¾ cup vanilla syrup or simple syrup

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the dried fruits with rum or apple juice.
2. Cover and let soak overnight for maximum flavor.
3. If short on time, microwave the mixture for 1 minute, cover, and let rest for 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

4. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
5. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until creamy.
7. Add salt, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and baking powder, mixing well.
8. Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl after each addition.
9. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder.
10. Gradually add the flour mixture and boiled cider to the batter, mixing gently.
11. Stir in the apple juice, soaked fruit mixture (including any liquid), and toasted nuts.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

12. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, filling it ¾ full.
13. Bake for 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
14. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

15. Brush the warm cake with rum, brandy, or vanilla syrup to keep it moist.
16. Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap.

Step 5: Store and Serve

17. Store at room temperature for 6-8 weeks, brushing with syrup occasionally.
18. Slice and serve with tea or coffee for a rich, festive treat.

This Homemade Fruit Cake is packed with flavor, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy its deep, caramelized sweetness and tender texture!