Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

why make this recipe

Never Fail Fruit Cake is a delightful treat that many cherish, especially during the holiday season. This old-fashioned recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a deep flavor from mixed dried fruits and nuts. It’s easy to make and rarely fails, making it a reliable option for gatherings and celebrations. Plus, the warm spices and rich texture will surely impress family and friends.

how to make Never Fail Fruit Cake

Ingredients:

• 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

Directions:

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

how to serve Never Fail Fruit Cake

Once baked and cooled slightly, you can slice the Never Fail Fruit Cake and serve it warm or at room temperature. This cake pairs nicely with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar for a nice touch.

how to store Never Fail Fruit Cake

To store your Never Fail Fruit Cake, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap it well and it will keep for several months in the freezer.

tips to make Never Fail Fruit Cake

• Use a mix of your favorite dried fruits for a unique flavor.
• Make sure your butter is fully softened. This helps in creaming effectively.
• Do not overmix the batter once you add the flour mix. This keeps the cake tender.
• You can soak your dried fruits in warm water or the brandy/rum overnight for added moisture and flavor.

variation

You can add a splash of vanilla extract to the batter for a touch of additional flavor. Additionally, try using different nuts or adding chocolate chips for a sweeter twist!

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
A: Fresh fruit can add moisture to the cake, but it may not hold the same texture. Dried fruits work best for this recipe.

Q: What’s the best way to thaw a frozen fruit cake?
A: To thaw a frozen fruit cake, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for several hours or overnight before serving.

Q: Can I make this cake without alcohol?
A: Yes, you can skip the brandy or rum. You can replace it with more orange juice or water if needed.

Enjoy making your Never Fail Fruit Cake and savor its wonderful flavors!

Never Fail Fruit Cake

An easy and reliable fruit cake perfect for the holiday season, made with mixed dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, sure to impress family and friends.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Servings: 10 slices

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter Softened at room temperature
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brandy or rum

Add-ins

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits Chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup chopped nuts

Method

 

Preparation

1. Assemble all ingredients on a clean workspace.
2. Measure and chop dried fruits and nuts into bite-sized pieces.
3. Softened butter at room temperature for easy creaming.
4. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).

Mixing

1. Cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth after each addition.
3. Whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a separate bowl.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients with wet ingredients, alternating with orange juice.
5. Gently fold in dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed.

Baking

1. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
3. Bake for 60-75 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Serving

1. Once baked and cooled slightly, slice the Never Fail Fruit Cake and serve it warm or at room temperature.

Notes

To store your Never Fail Fruit Cake, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap it well and it will keep for several months in the freezer.