This Homemade Fruit Cake is a rich, moist, and flavorful dessert packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices. Unlike store-bought versions, this recipe ensures a perfectly balanced sweetness with a tender crumb, making it ideal for holiday celebrations or special occasions. The combination of raisins, cherries, pineapple, and walnuts creates a delightful texture, while a hint of vanilla and cinnamon enhances the depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Fruit Mixture:
- 1 ½ cups red candied cherries
- 1 ½ cups green candied cherries
- 3 cups candied pineapple
- 10 ounces golden raisins
- 1 pound walnut halves
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 cup shortening
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Fruit Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine candied cherries, pineapple, raisins, and walnuts.
- Toss them together to ensure even distribution.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a separate bowl, cream together shortening and sugar until light and fluffy (about 5-7 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Mix Everything Together:
- Pour the batter over the fruit mixture and stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Bake the Cake:
- Transfer the batter to the prepared tube pan.
- Bake for 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Store:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Wrap tightly and store in a cool place.
- Bring to room temperature before serving and slice with a serrated knife.
This Homemade Fruit Cake is a classic, festive dessert that stays moist and flavorful for weeks. Would you like variations or additional serving suggestions? 😊