Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe

Hey there, holiday lovers! The Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that makes for a perfect centerpiece during the festive season. This cake stands out with its rich texture and array of dried fruits, making it a favorite at gatherings and celebrations. Whether served at special occasion dinner or gifted to loved ones, this fruit cake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of mixed dried fruits and spices creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Perfect forspecial occasion, birthdays, or any festive gathering.
• Long-lasting Treat: This cake matures beautifully over time, enriching its flavor.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to substitute fruits or spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create your festive masterpiece, gather the right tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking pan (9-inch round)
• Electric mixer or whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Baking pan: A good baking pan ensures even cooking and easy removal of the cake after baking.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

• 3/4 cup (175g) unsalted butter, chopped
• 1 packed cup (210g) light brown muscovado sugar
• 2 + 2/3 cups (400g) mixed dried fruit
• 1 cup (200g) glacé cherries, roughly chopped
• 1 cup (100g) dried cranberries

For Flavoring

• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cherry apple juice

For Texture

• 1/2 cup (85g) ground almonds (coarsely ground)
• 3 large eggs, lightly whisked
• 1 + 2/3 cup (200g) plain/all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder

For Spices

• 1 tsp ground mixed spice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice

For Feeding the Cake

• Cherry apple juice (1-2 tbsp per week for feeding)

How to Make Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the mixed dried fruit, glacé cherries, and cranberries.
2. Add in the zest and juice of both orange and lemon along with cherry apple juice.
3. Mix well until all fruits are coated with juices.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the chopped unsalted butter and light brown muscovado sugar until creamy.
2. Gradually add in lightly whisked eggs while continuing to mix.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

To the butter mixture:
1. Fold in the fruit mixture gently.
2. Sift together plain flour, baking powder, ground mixed spice, cinnamon, allspice, and ground almonds.
3. Carefully incorporate this dry mixture into the wet mix until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your greased baking pan:
1. Spread evenly using a spatula.
2. Bake in your preheated oven for about 105 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Feed

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
2. Feed your cake weekly with cherry apple juice for added moisture and flavor enhancement.

Enjoy creating this traditional holiday favorite!

How to Serve Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe

Serving your Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe can elevate the holiday experience. This delightful cake pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee complements the sweetness of the fruit cake perfectly.
• Spiced Hot Chocolate: Add a hint of cinnamon to your hot chocolate for a cozy pairing that enhances the festive spirit.

Add Creamy Elements

• Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture and balances the dense fruit cake.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy cream cheese frosting provides a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

Enjoy with Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Oranges: Fresh orange slices bring a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the cake.
• Berries: A mix of fresh berries offers tartness and color, making your serving plate visually appealing.

How to Perfect Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe

To make sure your Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Use High-Quality Ingredients: Using premium dried fruits and spices will significantly enhance the flavor profile.
• Bold Soak Your Fruits: Soaking dried fruits in cherry apple juice overnight allows them to plump up and infuse more flavor into the cake.
• Bold Test for Doneness: To ensure your cake is fully baked, insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean when done.
• Bold Cool Slowly: Letting your fruit cake cool in its tin helps retain moisture and prevents cracking.
• Bold Store Properly: Wrap your cooled cake tightly in parchment paper and foil, then store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe

Complementing your Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe with side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Bold Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and mild flavor provide a delightful contrast to the dense fruit cake.
2. Bold Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and a savory touch that pairs well with sweet treats.
3. Bold Gingerbread Cookies: These cookies bring festive flavors that complement the fruit cake beautifully.
4. Bold Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese can add richness and complexity to your dessert spread.
5. Bold Mulled Wine Spices (Non-Alcoholic): Create a non-alcoholic version using spices like cinnamon and cloves for a warm beverage option.
6. Bold Candied Citrus Peel: Sweet candied citrus adds a chewy texture and bright flavor that works well alongside fruit cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect your cake’s quality.

• Bold choice of dried fruits: Using only one type of dried fruit can lead to a lack of flavor. Mix various dried fruits for a more complex taste.
• Bold mixing too much: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense fruit cake. Blend just until ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.
• Bold skipping the soaking process: Not soaking your dried fruits can make them tough. Soak them in juice or water overnight for better texture and moisture.
• Bold ignoring baking times: Each oven is different; don’t rely solely on the timer. Check for doneness with a skewer to avoid undercooking or burning.
• Bold using improper storage: Storing your cake in an unsealed container can dry it out. Use an airtight container to keep it moist and flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Bestspecial occasion Fruit Cake Recipe in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slices for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe unique?

The combination of mixed dried fruits and spices creates a rich flavor profile that sets this recipe apart from others.

Can I customize the Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, different dried fruits, or spices according to your taste preferences.

How long does the Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe last?

When stored properly, it can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?

Using fresh fruit is not recommended as it adds too much moisture. Stick with dried fruits for best results.

What should I serve with my Best special occasion Fruit Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of icing for added sweetness.

Final Thoughts

The Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe is not just festive but also versatile. Its rich flavors and customizable nature make it suitable for any occasion. Whether you stick to tradition or add your twist, this cake is sure to impress friends and family. Give it a try this holiday season!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

The Best special occasion Fruit Cake Recipe is a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures that makes it a must-have centerpiece during the holiday season. This cake showcases a medley of dried fruits, enhanced by fragrant spices, creating a truly mouthwatering dessert. Perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply indulging yourself, this fruit cake is both versatile and long-lasting. It matures beautifully over time, allowing flavors to deepen and develop, ensuring every slice is a festive treat.

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Ingredients

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• 3/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown muscovado sugar
• 2 + 2/3 cups mixed dried fruit
• 1 cup glacé cherries
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup cherry apple juice
• 3 large eggs
• 1 + 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground mixed spice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine mixed dried fruit, glacé cherries, cranberries, orange zest and juice, lemon zest, and cherry apple juice.
3. In another bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until smooth. Gradually add eggs while mixing.
4. Fold in the fruit mixture into the creamed butter and sugar.
5. Sift together flour, baking powder, spices, and ground almonds; gently mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
6. Pour batter into a greased baking pan and bake for about 105 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cooling before feeding weekly with cherry apple juice.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 105 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Traditional

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg