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Heavenly Moist Fruit Cake Loaf

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A buttery and tender fruit cake loaf filled with plump soaked dried fruits and warm spices. This classic holiday-style loaf stays incredibly moist and develops deeper flavor over time, making it perfect for gifting or cozy gatherings.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 70 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 10 slices
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: International
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar
  • 1 cup (240 g) unsalted butter or margarine, softened
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups (250 g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, cherries)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) orange juice or rum
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon mixed spice or ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. Place dried fruits in a bowl and pour orange juice or rum over them. Soak for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Cream butter and brown sugar together for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, mixed spice (or cinnamon), and nutmeg.
  6. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Fold in soaked fruits along with any remaining liquid.
  8. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 60–70 minutes, checking at 55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • Soaking fruits enhances moisture and flavor.
  • Toss fruits in 1 tablespoon flour to prevent sinking.
  • Let loaf rest 24 hours for deeper flavor.
  • Store airtight at room temperature up to 4 days.
  • Freeze slices up to 3 months.
  • Add orange zest or chopped nuts for variation.

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