Description
A classic and delicious fruitcake recipe perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups mixed dried fruit (such as raisins, currants, and chopped dried apricots)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup candied citrus peel (optional)
- 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed dried fruit, chopped nuts, and candied citrus peel (if using). Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the applesauce and orange juice until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the fruit and nut mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter. If desired, stir in the brandy or rum for added flavor.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the fruitcake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, soak the dried fruit in brandy or rum overnight before adding it to the batter.
- You can substitute the mixed dried fruit with your favorite dried fruits, such as cranberries or figs, for a personalized touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Classic Christmas Fruitcake Recipe