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Homemade Fruit Cake

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A rich and moist homemade fruit cake packed with dried fruits, nuts, warm spices, and citrus zest, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 100 minutes
  • Total Time: 120 minutes
  • Yield: 10-12 slices
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: International
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 cup orange juice or apple juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups mixed dried fruits
  • 1 cup chopped nuts
  • 2 tablespoons molasses (optional)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup fruit juice (optional for soaking)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F) and prepare a lined loaf pan.
  2. Optionally soak dried fruits in juice for 2 hours or overnight, then drain.
  3. Cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
  5. Mix in vanilla extract and molasses if using.
  6. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and spices in a separate bowl.
  7. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, alternating with juice.
  8. Fold in dried fruits, nuts, and citrus zest.
  9. Pour batter into pan and smooth the top.
  10. Bake for 90–120 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
  11. Cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • Soaking dried fruits improves texture but is optional.
  • Cover with foil if top browns too quickly.
  • Flavor improves after a day or two.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Customize fruits and nuts as desired.

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