Homemade Fruit Cake

Homemade Fruit Cake

Homemade Fruit Cake is the ultimate holiday classic — dense, moist, and bursting with rich flavors from dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices. Whether it’s served during Christmas, gifted to loved ones, or enjoyed with a cup of tea, this cake brings comfort and celebration with every bite. Unlike store-bought versions, this fruit cake is full of texture and warmth, made from scratch with love. The glaze on top adds just the right touch of sweetness and shine, making this cake as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour

• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar

• ½ cup (115g) butter, melted

• 3 large eggs

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• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)

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• 1 ½ to 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, cherries, cranberries, chopped dates)

• ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)

• ¼ cup orange juice or dark rum (for soaking the fruits)

For the Glaze and Topping (Optional):

• ¼ cup apricot jam or honey, warmed

• Whole cherries, pecans, almonds, or extra dried fruit for decoration

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit Mix:
   In a small bowl, combine the dried fruits and orange juice (or rum). Let soak for 30 minutes or overnight for extra flavor.

2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch round or square cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.

3. Make the Batter:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In another bowl, beat the melted butter and brown sugar together until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and orange zest.

4. Combine Everything:
   Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Fold in the soaked dried fruits and chopped nuts until just combined.

5. Pour and Bake:
   Spoon the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 60–75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

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6. Cool and Glaze:
   Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While still slightly warm, brush the top with warmed apricot jam or honey for a glossy finish. Decorate with whole nuts, cherries, or dried fruits if desired.

This Homemade Fruit Cake is tender, flavorful, and beautifully rich — everything a proper fruit cake should be. It keeps well for days and even improves in flavor over time. Perfect for gifting, entertaining, or simply enjoying on a cozy afternoon, this cake is a wonderful reminder of how sweet homemade traditions can be.

Slice, serve, and share the joy — one delicious bite at a time. 🎄🍰

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