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Traditional Holiday Fruit Cake

Traditional Holiday Fruit Cake

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings 1 slice
Calories 270 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 cup dried fruit mix cherries, pineapple, apricots, etc.
  • ½ cup nuts walnuts, pecans, chopped
  • ¼ cup candied cherries halved
  • ¼ cup green candied cherries halved
  • ¼ cup red candied cherries halved

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Mix in the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  • Fold in the fruits and nuts: Gently fold in the dried fruit mix, chopped nuts, and halved candied cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  • Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve as is or with a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Notes

  • For a boozy version, you can soak the dried fruit mix in rum or brandy overnight before adding it to the cake batter.
  • If you prefer a softer texture, substitute half of the butter with vegetable oil for extra moisture.
  • Feel free to swap out the dried fruits or nuts with your favorites for a more personalized fruit cake.