There’s something so delightful about a moist and tangy lemon fruitcake that just brightens up any occasion. The perfect blend of citrusy flavors paired with sweet fruits and a hint of spice makes this dessert a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a slice of something cozy, this lemon fruitcake recipe is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a storm with this delicious treat!
Lemon Fruitcake
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/3 cup sour cream
– Zest of 2 lemons
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and apricots)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Stir in the sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Gently fold in the chopped dried fruits and nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the lemon fruitcake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, slice the fruitcake into thick, generous pieces and serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
12. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. The flavors of this fruitcake will meld together beautifully over time, making it even more delicious with each passing day.
Warm, zesty, and bursting with fruity goodness, this lemon fruitcake is a must-try for any dessert enthusiast. With a blend of comforting flavors and a touch of sunshine, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the process of creating a delectable treat that will bring joy to your taste buds and those of your loved ones. Happy baking!
