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
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
