Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

Indulge in the rich aroma of spices and plump fruits with our Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style). This delightful cake is perfect for any celebration, be it a festive gathering or a family get-together. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout dessert that will impress your guests and become a cherished tradition in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, this recipe ensures you can whip up a delicious fruit cake without hassle.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of dried fruits, nuts, and spices creates a deep, satisfying flavor that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Use – Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or casual gatherings, this fruit cake fits any occasion beautifully.
• Moist Texture – Thanks to the butter and orange juice, every slice is super moist and bursting with flavor.
• Customizable – Feel free to mix in your favorite dried fruits or nuts to make this recipe uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your efforts and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Loaf pan (9×5-inch)
• Parchment paper
• Toothpick

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – These are crucial for combining ingredients efficiently.
• Loaf pan – A good-quality loaf pan ensures even baking and easy removal of the cake.
• Parchment paper – Lining your pan with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

Indulge in the rich aroma of spices and plump fruits with our Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style). Each slice offers a delightful blend of tradition and flavor, perfect for any celebration.

For the Cake

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits
• 1 cup chopped nuts
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brandy or rum

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

Step 1: Assemble Your Ingredients

Gather all ingredients on a clean workspace to ensure an organized cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare Fruits and Nuts

Measure and chop the mixed dried fruits and nuts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them distribute evenly throughout the cake.

Step 3: Soften Butter

Let the unsalted butter sit at room temperature until it softens. This step is vital for easy creaming with sugar.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) so it’s ready when you’re done preparing the batter.

Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Add Eggs Gradually

Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well after each addition until smooth.

Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.

Step 8: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with orange juice. Start with dry ingredients for better consistency.

Step 9: Fold in Fruits and Nuts

Gently fold in your chopped dried fruits and nuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 10: Prepare Your Pan

Grease your loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.

Step 11: Pour Batter into Pan

Carefully pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top evenly.

Step 12: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-75 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when ready.

How to Serve Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

Serving Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style) is an enjoyable experience. This cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream complements the dense texture of the fruit cake, adding a creamy contrast.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a cool and sweet balance to the warm, spiced cake, perfect for a cozy dessert.

With Cheese Plate

• Pairing slices of fruit cake with a cheese platter introduces savory notes that enhance the overall tasting experience.

With Hot Tea or Coffee

• Enjoying fruit cake with a warm beverage like tea or coffee is classic. The warmth helps to release the spices in the cake.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Slice it thinly and serve as a breakfast treat alongside yogurt or fresh fruit for a delightful morning meal.

How to Perfect Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your Never Fail Fruit Cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality dried fruits: Selecting high-quality dried fruits ensures better flavor and moisture retention in your cake.
• Soak fruits overnight: Soaking your mixed dried fruits in brandy or orange juice overnight enhances their flavor and keeps them plump during baking.
• Don’t skip the nuts: Adding nuts not only gives texture but also enriches the overall taste profile of your fruit cake.
• Check oven temperature: Ensure your oven is correctly calibrated; an incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture.
• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool fully will help maintain its structure when slicing.

Best Side Dishes for Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

Complement your Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style) with delightful side dishes that elevate your serving experience.

1. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses like brie and cheddar pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of fruit cake.
2. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the dense flavors of the cake, making each bite lighter.
3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that balances the richness of the fruit cake.
4. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and an additional layer of flavor, enhancing the experience while enjoying fruit cake.
5. Chocolate Ganache
   Drizzling chocolate ganache over slices adds decadence, appealing to chocolate lovers while harmonizing with fruity notes.
6. Mulled Wine
   Serve warm mulled wine as a cozy drink pairing that complements the spices in your fruit cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style), it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Using imprecise measurements can alter the cake’s texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the soaking step – Failing to soak dried fruits beforehand can result in a dry cake. Soak your fruits in orange juice or brandy for several hours or overnight for best results.
• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can lead to a tough fruit cake. Mix just until combined, especially after adding flour, to maintain a tender crumb.
• Ignoring baking time – Every oven is different, so relying solely on the timer may not yield perfect results. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold butter and eggs can prevent proper mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better rise.
• Not allowing it to cool properly – Cutting into a hot fruit cake can cause it to crumble. Let it cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep moisture in.
• The fruit cake lasts up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual slices tightly with plastic wrap for easy servings.

Freezing Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 6 months without losing flavor.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

• Oven – Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm wrapped slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on low power for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this may dry out the cake.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits in Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)?

Using fresh fruits is not recommended as they contain more moisture and may alter the texture of the cake. Stick with dried varieties for best results!

What nuts work best in this fruit cake?

Common choices include walnuts, pecans, and almonds. Feel free to use your favorites or whatever you have on hand!

How long does Never Fail Fruit Cake last?

When stored properly, this fruit cake can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator and up to six months if frozen.

Can I customize my Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)?

Absolutely! You can add spices like allspice or cloves or substitute different types of nuts and dried fruits according to your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! The simple steps make it accessible even for novice bakers. Just follow the instructions carefully!

Final Thoughts

The Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style) is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its rich flavors and moist texture make it perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts and dried fruits or even experiment with different spices. We encourage you to try this timeless recipe; your friends and family will surely love it!

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Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style), a timeless dessert that combines the rich aroma of spices with plump dried fruits and crunchy nuts. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for all occasions, from festive celebrations to cozy family gatherings. With its moist texture and deep, satisfying flavor profile, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a beloved tradition in your home. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to add your favorite fruits or nuts for a personal touch.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits
• 1 cup chopped nuts
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brandy or rum

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients, alternating with orange juice.
5. Fold in dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 60-75 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool before slicing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Old-Fashioned

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 268
• Sugar: 21g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Soak dried fruits overnight in orange juice or brandy for enhanced flavor. Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans for variety. Store leftovers in an airtight container; it lasts up to two weeks in the fridge.