Old Fashioned Jul Time Fruit Cake Recipe

Old-Fashioned Fruit Cake

Description: Step back in time with this Old-Fashioned Fruit Cake, a recipe that has been cherished through generations. Rich, dense, and packed with a variety of dried fruits and nuts, this cake is a classic holiday treat. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the traditional flavors of Christmas and enjoy a slice of history with their festive fare.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 2 to 2.5 hours

Inactive Time: Overnight (for fruit soaking)

Servings: 12-15

Ingredients:

• 1 cup golden raisins

• 1 cup currants

• 1/2 cup dried cherries

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped

• 1/4 cup candied orange peel

• 1 cup brandy or rum, plus more for soaking

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1/2 cup molasses

• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine raisins, currants, dried cherries, cranberries, apricots, and candied orange peel. Pour brandy or rum over the fruit and let soak overnight, covered.

2. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or loaf pan.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice.

4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses.

5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Fold in the soaked fruit mixture and nuts.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

7. Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the cake in the pan, then remove it and wrap it in brandy or rum-soaked linen. Store in an airtight container.

Notes to Make it Better:

• For a moister cake, periodically brush with additional brandy or rum while storing.

• Experiment with different combinations of dried fruits and nuts to suit your taste.

• For best flavor, make the cake at least a week in advance, allowing the flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450

• Fat: 20g

• Sodium: 150mg

• Carbohydrates: 60g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugars: 40g

• Protein: 5g

Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

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