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Classic Fruitcake Loaf

Classic Fruitcake Loaf is a rich, dense holiday treat packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, chopped dried apricots)
  • 1/2 cup candied cherries, halved
  • 1/2 cup candied citrus peel, chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together dried fruits, candied cherries, and citrus peel. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
  5. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  6. Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with orange juice, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
  7. Stir in the mixed fruits and nuts until well combined.
  8. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 60–75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Wrap and store fruitcake for a few days before serving to enhance flavor.
  • You can soak dried fruits in orange juice or rum overnight for extra moisture and taste.
  • Fruitcake can be frozen for up to 3 months if tightly wrapped.

Nutrition

Keywords: fruitcake, holiday loaf, Christmas cake, classic fruitcake, dried fruit loaf, festive dessert