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Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

A wonderfully spiced cake, packed with dried fruits and nuts, bathed in orange juice and a splash of brandy, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dessert, Holiday
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups mixed dried fruits Use a mix of your favorite dried fruits.
  • 1 cup chopped nuts Opt for fresh nuts; toasting them enhances flavor.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter Softened at room temperature.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs Can substitute with flaxseed meal for a vegan option.
  • 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 Can be replaced with extra orange juice for non-alcoholic.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Assemble all ingredients on a clean workspace.
  2. Measure and chop the dried fruits and nuts into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Soften the butter at room temperature for easy creaming.
  4. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
Mixing
  1. Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth after each addition.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, alternating with orange juice.
  5. Gently fold in the dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed.
Baking
  1. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  3. Bake for 60-75 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Notes

This cake keeps well for about one week in the fridge and up to three months in the freezer. Wrap it tightly or store in a sealed container.