Ultimate Moist Fruit Cake Recipe

Fruit cake is a beloved dessert, especially during the holiday season, known for its rich flavors and moist texture. This easy moist fruit cake recipe simplifies the traditional methods, allowing you to create a delicious cake without the need for overnight soaking of the fruits.

What is a Fruit Cake

A fruit cake is a cake made with candied or dried fruits, nuts, and spices, and optionally soaked in spirits. It is dense and flavorful, often enjoyed during festive occasions like Christmas. The combination of various fruits gives it a unique taste and texture that can vary significantly from one recipe to another.

Ingredients

Key Ingredients in a Fruit Cake

The key ingredients in a fruit cake include:

• Dried Fruits: Raisins, currants, apricots, cherries, and dates are commonly used.
• Nuts: Walnuts or almonds add crunch and flavor.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice enhance the cake’s warmth.
• Sweeteners: Dark brown sugar and molasses contribute to the rich flavor.
• Liquids: Apple juice or brandy helps to soak the fruits and add moisture.

Ingredients ½x1x2x

This section typically refers to scaling recipes based on servings. For this fruit cake, you can adjust the quantities of ingredients based on how many servings you need.

Fruit Cake

The fruit cake itself is prepared using a mixture of soaked dried fruits combined with a batter made from flour, sugar, eggs, and spices.

Orange Syrup/Glaze

An orange syrup or glaze can be drizzled over the cake for added sweetness and citrus flavor. It’s made by reducing orange juice with sugar until thickened.

Fast Soaked Fruit (Note 1)

This innovative method involves microwaving dried fruits with juice or alcohol to quickly plump them up before mixing them into the batter. This technique saves time while ensuring the fruits are moist and flavorful.

Instructions

How to Make Fruit Cake

1. Prepare the Fast Soaked Fruit: Combine your choice of dried fruits with apple juice or brandy in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for about 1.5 minutes until hot. Cover and let it sit for an hour.
2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease and line your cake pan.
3. Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and dark brown sugar until smooth. Add oil and molasses, then mix in salt and spices.
4. Incorporate Eggs: Beat in eggs one at a time until well combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and baking powder to the mixture until just combined.
6. Add Soaked Fruits: Fold in the soaked fruit mixture along with any remaining liquid.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Cover with foil and bake for 2.5 hours; then remove foil and bake for an additional 30-45 minutes until a skewer comes out clean.

Boiled Fruit Mixture

This method involves boiling dried fruits in liquid before adding them to the batter, ensuring they are infused with moisture and flavor.

Fruit Cake

Once baked, allow the fruit cake to cool completely before serving or decorating.

Orange Syrup

To make orange syrup, simmer fresh orange juice with sugar until it thickens slightly. Drizzle over cooled cake for added flavor.

Fast Soaked Fruit

This technique allows you to enjoy fruit cake without waiting overnight for soaking, making it perfect for last-minute baking.

Cake

The final product should be rich, moist, and bursting with flavors from the fruits and spices.

Decorating and Serving

Christmas Cake Decorating Options:

Decorating your fruit cake can elevate its presentation:

• Simple Dusting: Dust with icing sugar for a classic look.
• Fresh Fruits: Top with cherries or other seasonal fruits.
• Fondant Layering: For a traditional look, cover with marzipan followed by fondant.

White Christmas Cake Decoration (Optional)

Using white fondant can give your fruit cake an elegant finish. Roll out marzipan first for a smooth base before applying fondant.

Other Decorating Options (Optional)

Consider using edible glitter or festive sprinkles to add some holiday cheer without overwhelming the cake’s natural beauty.

For Serving (Optional)

Serve slices of fruit cake plain or with pouring custard for an indulgent treat.

Notes and Additional Information

Recipe Notes

This recipe is designed to be straightforward while still delivering on taste. Adjust spices according to personal preference for more warmth or sweetness.

Nutrition Information

A typical serving of this easy moist fruit cake contains approximately:

• Calories: 388 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 64 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 15 g

  

FAQs : Ultimate Moist Fruit Cake Recipe

How long will fruit cake last?

Fruit cakes can last several weeks when stored properly; they can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for up to three months.

Can I use lemon in replacement of the orange in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lemon juice for orange juice; however, this will impart a different flavor profile that may be more tart.

Can I use plastic wrap instead of aluminum foil to wrap my fruit cake when storing it?

Plastic wrap can be used but may not provide as tight a seal as aluminum foil; ensure it’s wrapped securely to maintain moisture.

What’s the difference between Christmas cake and fruit cake?

While both are similar in ingredients, Christmas cakes are often richer due to additional alcohol soaking methods and may include marzipan or icing decorations.

Conclusion:

Creating an easy moist fruit cake is not only achievable but also rewarding. This delightful dessert brings together various flavors that evoke warmth and celebration during special occasions. With simple steps and accessible ingredients, anyone can enjoy baking this traditional treat without lengthy preparation times. Whether served plain or adorned with decorations, this fruit cake is sure to impress family and friends alike during festive gatherings.