When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of a freshly baked Betty Crocker Dark Fruit Cake wafting through the house. This classic recipe combines the deep flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and spices for a moist and decadent treat that is perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying with a cup of tea on a cozy evening. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this fruit cake recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. Let’s dive into the process of creating this timeless dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
**Betty Crocker Dark Fruit Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup raisins
– 1 cup currants
– 1 cup chopped dates
– 1 cup candied cherries, halved
– 1 cup chopped mixed peel
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup slivered almonds
– 1 cup brandy
– 1 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 4 eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground allspice
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine the raisins, currants, dates, cherries, mixed peel, walnuts, and almonds. Pour the brandy over the fruit and nut mixture, mix well, and allow to soak for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for the flavors to meld.
2. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves.
6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until well combined.
7. Gently fold in the soaked fruit and nut mixture until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
This Betty Crocker Dark Fruit Cake is best enjoyed after a few days of aging, as the flavors will continue to deepen and develop over time. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can brush the top of the cake with additional brandy every few days to keep it moist and flavorful. Slice into thick wedges and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for a truly luxurious dessert experience. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a fragrant and festive fruit cake that will be the star of your holiday table.
