Delicious and Moist Fruit Cake Recipe

Are you ready to break the stereotype of dry and heavy fruit cakes with a recipe that guarantees moist, flavorful perfection? Look no further than this Easy Moist Fruit Cake that has won over even the staunchest fruit cake critics. The secret? Boiling the fruit mixture to create a cake that’s tender, rich, and bursting with warmth and holiday joy.

Imagine a cake that marries the best quality dried fruits, fresh nuts, warm spices, and sweet touches of molasses and orange into a delightful symphony of flavors. This recipe is a game-changer, offering a moist and delicious treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds, even those who claim not to like fruit cake. The key is patience – let the flavors meld and intensify during the resting period post-bake, and don’t forget the glaze to seal in all that moisture.

Embrace the versatility of this Easy Moist Fruit Cake by playing with different fruit combinations or adding your unique twist with variations like lemon zest or dried cranberries. With each slice, you’ll savor the fruits of your labor and creativity, making this cake a cherished highlight of any celebration. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a fruit cake that’s bound to become a beloved tradition in your home.

Quick Benefits

• Incredibly moist: Boiling the fruits first creates a tender cake packed with flavor.
• Irresistible flavor: High-quality dried fruits, fresh dates, warm spices, and nuts elevate the taste.
• Surprising appeal: Even fruit cake skeptics have been won over by this recipe.
• Versatile and customizable: Experiment with different fruit combinations to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious and Moist Fruit Cake Recipe Recipe

• Incredibly Moist: Boiling the fruits first creates a tender cake that is packed with flavor and moisture, making it unlike any traditional fruit cake that is often dry and heavy.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of high-quality dried fruits, fresh dates, warm spices, and nuts results in a cake that is bursting with warmth and joy, perfect for any celebration.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who typically dislike fruit cake have fallen in love with this recipe, making it a perfect holiday tradition that is sure to be a hit with everyone.
• Quality Ingredients: Using the best quality dried fruits, fresh nuts, molasses, and orange juice ensures a rich and delicious cake that is full of depth and flavor.
• Versatile and Creative: The recipe encourages experimentation with different fruit combinations, allowing for endless possibilities to tailor the cake to your preferences and creativity.
• Patience Pays Off: The resting time after baking is crucial in allowing the flavors to develop and meld together, resulting in a cake that gets better with time.
• Long-Lasting Moisture: Proper storage keeps this fruit cake wonderfully moist, ensuring that it stays fresh and delicious for an extended period.

Ingredients for Delicious and Moist Fruit Cake Recipe

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt.
• 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter.
• 1/4 cup (52g) vegetable oil.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon powder.
• 3 tablespoons (50g) fresh orange juice for syrup.
• 3 large eggs, room temperature.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger.
• 2 tablespoons (36g) molasses.
• 1 teaspoon allspice.
• 3/4 cup (150g) soft brown sugar.
• 1 3/4 tablespoons (20g) white sugar for syrup.
• 2 cups (350g) dried fruits (sultanas, raisins, currants, glace cherries, citrus peel).
• 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour.
• 1 cup (100g) walnuts, halved.
• 1/2 cup (100g) dates, pitted and chopped.
• 2/3 cup (166g) sweetened orange juice.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons orange zest.

Pro Tips for Delicious and Moist Fruit Cake Recipe

Pro Tip 1: Invest in good quality dried fruits for the fruit mix to ensure a rich and flavorful cake. Skip the candied fruits and opt for fresh dates for a more natural sweetness that will elevate the taste of your fruit cake.

Pro Tip 2: Don’t rush the process – boiling the fruits beforehand creates a tender and moist cake. Allow the flavors to meld by giving the cake time to rest after baking. The glaze is a crucial step to lock in moisture, so don’t skip it for a perfectly moist fruit cake every time.

Pro Tip 3: Get creative with your fruit combinations to personalize your cake. Experiment with different nuts, spices, or even citrus flavors like lemon or cranberries to add a unique twist to this classic recipe. The versatility of this moist fruit cake recipe allows you to tailor it to your preferences and surprise your taste buds with each batch.

How to Make Delicious and Moist Fruit Cake Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Simmer butter, sugar, dried fruits, dates (if firm), orange juice, zest, and molasses. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Step 02

Combine dry ingredients. Mix oil and eggs in a separate bowl. Fold into cooled fruit mixture. Stir in walnuts and remaining ingredients.

Step 3: Step 03

Transfer the mixture into an 8×3 inch baking tin. Bake at 140°C (fan) for 75-85 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 4: Step 04

Create orange syrup by combining sugar with orange juice. Brush over cake while still warm.

Step 5: Step 05

Cover tightly with foil and place in an airtight container. Allow to sit for 48 hours before serving.

Storage Tips

To store the finished moist fruit cake, ensure it has completely cooled to room temperature. Once cooled, tightly wrap the cake in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. You can then store the wrapped cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you plan to keep the fruit cake for longer, it is best to refrigerate it. Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the fruit cake. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped cake in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container before placing it in the freezer. The fruit cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving. Proper storage will help maintain the cake’s moisture and delicious flavors, allowing you to savor it over an extended period.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the dried fruits, if you don’t have the exact types listed, feel free to swap in any combination of your favorite dried fruits such as apricots, prunes, figs, or cranberries. Just aim for about 2 cups total to maintain the fruitiness and texture of the cake.

If you’re out of walnuts or prefer a different nut, pecans or almonds can be excellent substitutes in this fruit cake. They will still provide that nice crunch and nutty flavor that complements the fruits and spices.

In place of fresh orange juice and zest, you can try using lemon juice and zest for a slightly different citrusy twist. This substitution can give the cake a brighter, tangy flavor profile while still maintaining the moistness and balance of the original recipe.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this easy moist fruit cake, consider serving it warm with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast between the moist, warm cake and the cool, creamy topping is a delightful sensory experience that will have your guests coming back for more. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle a bit of warm caramel sauce over each slice before serving to enhance the rich flavors of the fruit and spices.

Another creative serving suggestion for this exceptional fruit cake is to slice it into small squares and skewer each piece with a toothpick along with a fresh berry, such as a raspberry or blackberry. This not only makes for a visually appealing presentation but also offers a burst of juicy sweetness that complements the dense, flavorful cake. These bite-sized treats are perfect for serving at parties or gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy a taste of this moist fruit cake without committing to a full slice.

FAQs for Delicious and Moist Fruit Cake Recipe

Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits in this recipe?

It’s best to stick with dried fruits as they provide a concentrated flavor and moisture to the cake. Fresh fruits may release too much liquid during baking and alter the texture of the cake.

Do I have to wait for 3 days to make this fruit cake?

While the total time for this recipe is 3 days, most of it involves waiting for the fruit mixture to cool and then letting the baked cake rest for optimal flavor. You can speed up the process by preparing the fruit mixture and baking the cake on the same day, but the flavors may not develop as deeply.

Can I substitute the walnuts with a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the walnuts with your preferred nuts such as pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop or halve them to a similar size as the walnuts for even distribution in the cake.

How should I store this moist fruit cake to keep it fresh?

To keep your fruit cake moist and flavorful, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also wrap it in parchment paper and foil before storing. If you live in a warm climate, it’s best to store the cake in the refrigerator. Before serving, you can warm the cake slightly to enhance the flavors.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Easy Moist Fruit Cake as much as I do. It’s a true labor of love that pays off with every delicious bite. The process may take a few days, but the end result is absolutely worth it. The rich flavors, tender crumb, and perfect level of moisture make it a standout dessert for any occasion.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and soon you’ll have a delightful Easy Moist Fruit Cake to share with loved ones. Whether you’re a fruit cake enthusiast or a skeptic, this recipe is sure to win you over. Embrace the festive spirit and indulge in this delectable treat that will surely become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Happy baking, and here’s to enjoying many slices of this Easy Moist Fruit Cake!