Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

When it comes to baking, there’s something truly nostalgic about an old-fashioned fruit cake. This Never Fail Fruit Cake recipe brings together the sweetness of mixed dried fruits, the crunch of nuts, and the warm aromas of spices, creating a confection that’s not just delicious but comforting as well. Whether you’re making this cake for a festive holiday gathering or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea on a cozy afternoon, it reminds us of simpler times. Each bite is a delightful homage to traditional baking, one that promises satisfaction and joy.

Why You’ll Love Making It

What really sets this fruit cake apart from others is its rich history and the memories it stirs. Imagine gathering around the kitchen with family, measuring and mixing, while sharing stories of holiday traditions or family celebrations. This cake is not merely a dessert; it’s a cherished ritual for many.

"I made this recipe for Christmas, and it turned out beautifully! It was moist, flavorful, and everyone raved about it. I’ll definitely be making it every year!" – A Happy Baker

Moreover, this recipe is quite forgiving, making it perfect for novice bakers. With a budget-friendly ingredient list, it’s easy to whip up without breaking the bank. It’s a wonderful choice for potlucks or holiday gatherings, where bringing a homemade dish can make a hearty impression.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making the Never Fail Fruit Cake is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Here’s a simple breakdown: you’ll be mixing dry ingredients and wet ingredients in separate bowls, then combining them to form a batter. Finally, you’ll fold in the fruits and nuts, pour the mixture into a loaf pan, and pop it into the oven. Within an hour, your kitchen will be filled with delightful scents!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To get started, gather these essentials:

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (like raisins, cranberries, and apricots)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work beautifully)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened at room temperature)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional for extra flavor)

You can easily swap fruits or nuts based on your preference or what’s in your pantry. For instance, using walnuts instead of pecans will offer a slightly different but equally delightful texture.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, alternating with the orange juice until well integrated.
6. Gently fold in the chopped dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed.
7. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

What to Serve It With

This delightful fruit cake can be enjoyed alone or dressed up with a few simple additions. Consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh fruit for added flavor and texture. A cup of spiced tea or mulled wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the cake’s warm spices.

For a more festive presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar or glaze it with a mixture of orange juice and powdered sugar. You could even serve it alongside a classic cheese platter for an appealing afternoon snack.

Best Way to Store Never Fail Fruit Cake

To keep your fruit cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature, where it can last for up to a week. If you want to preserve it for longer, you can refrigerate it, which helps maintain moisture. For even more extended storage, consider freezing it: wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Pro Chef Tips

• Don’t skip the soaking: If you have time, soak the dried fruits in orange juice or the alcohol for a few hours or overnight for enhanced flavor.
• Egg temperature matters: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to help them incorporate more easily into the batter.
• Check for doneness: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the cake during the last 10 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, lightly cover it with aluminum foil.

Creative Twists

There are endless possibilities to customize your Never Fail Fruit Cake. Consider adding different spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique twist. You could replace some of the mixed dried fruits with chocolate chips for a sweeter variation, or even make it gluten-free by using a suitable flour blend.

Your Questions Answered

Can I substitute the dried fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever dried fruits you have on hand, such as figs or dates.

How long does it take to prepare?
Expect about 20-30 minutes for preparation before it goes into the oven.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! This cake actually gets better with a day or two of resting, allowing the flavors to develop further.

This Never Fail Fruit Cake is not just a recipe; it’s an experience, sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Never Fail Fruit Cake

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• Total Time: 105 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

An old-fashioned fruit cake filled with mixed dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, perfect for festive gatherings or cozy afternoons.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture, alternating with the orange juice until well integrated.
6. Gently fold in the dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed.
7. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, soak dried fruits in orange juice or alcohol for a few hours or overnight.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Traditional

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: fruit cake, holiday dessert, baking, traditional recipe