Special Fruit Cake – A Festive, Flavorful Classic

This Special Fruit Cake is a delightful twist on the traditional holiday favorite, packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices. Moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced, it’s an elegant dessert for celebrations or a cozy treat any time of year. With a focus on wholesome ingredients and balanced sweetness, this fruit cake offers indulgence that feels lighter without compromising on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive & Flavorful: Perfect for holidays or special occasions.
Moist & Tender: The blend of fruits and nuts keeps every slice soft.
Simple Ingredients: Easy to find pantry staples.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better when allowed to rest for a day or two.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, chopped dates)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce or orange juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in applesauce (or orange juice), vanilla, and orange zest.

4. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Then fold in dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed.

5. Bake
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool & Serve
Allow cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve as desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Soak Dried Fruits: For extra moistness, soak dried fruits in a little warm water or juice for 15–20 minutes before adding.
• Nuts: Lightly toast nuts to enhance flavor.
• Spice Variations: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a richer, holiday-inspired taste.
• Make Ahead: Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for a few days to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of fruit, nuts, and warm spices creates a moist, flavorful cake that satisfies dessert cravings while offering nutritional benefits from fruit and nuts. This fruit cake is both festive and approachable, perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea.

Special Fruit Cake is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and cheer to any occasion. With its moist texture, rich flavor, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a cake that can be enjoyed guilt-free and shared with loved ones. Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy afternoon treat, this recipe delivers festive indulgence with every bite.