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Old-Fashioned Fruit Cake

A timeless recipe cherished by families, this fruit cake is packed with rich flavors, hearty textures, and the warmth of spices, making it perfect for festive occasions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, apricots, cherries) You can soak the dried fruits in orange juice or vanilla extract overnight for enhanced flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans) Feel free to use your preferred nuts.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour For gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Best at room temperature.
  • 1 cup brown sugar Packed tightly for measurement.
  • 3 large eggs At room temperature for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup orange juice

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
  2. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Mixing
  1. In another large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract and orange juice.
  3. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
  4. Fold in the dried fruits and nuts.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
  2. Bake for about 75-90 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving
  1. Serve and enjoy during holiday traditions and family gatherings!

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 6gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25g

Notes

Store the fruit cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

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