There is something truly magical about the season when it comes to baking, and nothing captures that festive spirit quite like a Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe. This rich, moist cake bursts with colorful candied fruits and crunchy nuts, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors that have been cherished for generations. Whether you’re sharing it with family or gifting it to friends, this time-honored recipe brings warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of holiday cheer to every bite.

Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking a perfect Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role, from the fluffy texture created by flour and baking powder to the vibrant sweetness of candied fruits and the satisfying crunch of nuts. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cake structure and tenderness.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise to a soft, fluffy perfection.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cake’s crumb.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping to create a tender texture.
3 large eggs: Binds ingredients and brings stability to the batter.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma that complements the fruits and nuts.
1/2 cup milk: Moistens the batter for a soft, luxurious finish.
1 cup mixed nuts and dried fruits (cherries, pineapple, apricots, etc.): Delivers bursts of texture and natural sweetness throughout the cake.
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped: Adds a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
1/4 cup candied cherries, cut in half: Classic festive jewels that add bright pops of color and sugary sweetness.
1/4 cup candied green cherries, cut in half: Provides contrast and a vibrant look on top.
1/4 cup candied red cherries, cut in half: Completes the colorful and celebratory decoration.

How to Make Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or bread mold carefully to prevent the cake from sticking and to ensure easy removal once baked. This step sets the stage for an evenly baked cake that comes out flawlessly every time.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting not only removes lumps but also aerates the ingredients, which helps your cake stay light and fluffy.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture turns pale and fluffy. This is an important step because it creates air pockets that make your cake tender and velvety.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate them fully into the mixture. Then stir in the vanilla extract, which lends a warm, cozy aroma that complements the festive fruits perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the dry flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the cake dense, so keep it light and easy.

Step 6: Fold in Nuts and Fruits

Carefully fold in the mixed nuts and chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the batter. This step is where your cake starts to take on that luscious, nutty texture that’s so satisfying.

Step 7: Transfer and Decorate

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Arrange the halved candied cherries on top to create a festive mosaic of colors that will shine through after baking.

Step 8: Bake

Place your cake in the oven and bake for 70 to 80 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. The slow bake at a moderate temperature ensures the cake cooks evenly without drying out.

Step 9: Cool

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain its moisture and texture while preventing a soggy bottom.

How to Serve Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe is a chance to get creative. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives it a snowy look that’s perfect for the holidays. Alternatively, serve slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of warm brandy butter for extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of spiced tea or rich coffee, balancing its sweetness with warmth. For an extra festive touch, serve alongside fresh fruit compotes or creamy custard to complement the nutty and fruity flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap the cake slices in pretty parchment and tie them with red ribbon for beautiful edible gifts. Or display the whole cake on a festive platter surrounded by fresh holly and cinnamon sticks to create a stunning centerpiece that invites your guests to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature, or cover it well with foil. It will stay moist and flavorful for up to a week, perfect for nibbling days after the holiday.

Freezing

This cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy your Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe well beyond the holiday season.

Reheating

The best way to warm your cake is to let it come to room temperature before serving. If you prefer it warm, gently heat slices in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 10-15 minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which can dry it out.

FAQs

Can I substitute the mixed nuts for something else?

Absolutely! If you have nut allergies or prefer other flavors, dried figs, dates, or even seeds like pumpkin or sunflower can add a wonderful texture and taste to your Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe.

How long does the Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the cake stays fresh at room temperature for about a week, and it can last even longer when refrigerated or frozen, maintaining its rich flavors beautifully.

Do I need to soak the fruits beforehand?

This recipe uses candied and dried fruits that are ready to use without soaking. If you like a boozier cake, you can soak the dried fruits in brandy or rum overnight for added depth and moisture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that’s suitable for cakes, you can enjoy a gluten-free Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe without compromising texture or flavor.

What’s the best way to slice the cake?

Use a serrated knife and cut with gentle sawing motions to keep each slice neat and prevent crumbling, especially since the candied fruits can stick to the blade.

Final Thoughts

This Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert—it is a celebration of holiday warmth, family traditions, and joyful moments shared around the table. I encourage you to try making it this season; once you taste its rich layers of fruit and nut goodness, you’ll understand why this cake holds such a special place in everyone’s hearts. Happy baking and even happier holidays!

Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe

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4.2 from 89 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Traditional Christmas Fruit Cake brings together a rich blend of mixed nuts and colorful candied cherries baked into a moist, flavorful loaf. Perfect for the holiday season, this cake combines classic festive ingredients with a soft texture and a sweet finish, making it an ideal treat to share with family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk

Fruit and Nuts

1 cup mixed nuts (cherries, pineapple, apricots, etc.)
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup candied cherries, cut in half
1/4 cup candied green cherries, cut in half
1/4 cup candied red cherries, cut in half

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Instructions

Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or bread mold to prevent sticking and ensure easy cake removal.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and prevents lumps.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This incorporates air, giving the cake a tender crumb.
Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Fold in nuts: Gently fold in the mixed nuts and chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly without deflating the batter.
Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface. Decorate the top with the halved candied cherries for a festive touch.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 70-80 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
You can substitute mixed dried fruits if preferred instead of the cherries and nuts listed.
Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
For added moisture and flavor, you can brush the cake with a simple syrup or alcohol like rum after baking.
Adjust baking time slightly depending on your oven and loaf pan size.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Western