For those looking to add a touch of nostalgia and sweetness to their baking repertoire, a classic and beloved treat is the Good Old Fashioned Fruit Cake. This timeless dessert is a perfect choice for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With its rich flavors and moist texture, this fruit cake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this wonderful recipe that will have your kitchen smelling amazing and your taste buds singing with delight.
**Good Old Fashioned Fruit Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped apricots, cherries)
– 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Zest of one lemon
– Zest of one orange
– 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, then line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts. Toss them with 1/4 cup of flour until they are evenly coated. This will prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake while baking.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. In another bowl, sift together the remaining flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until everything is fully incorporated.
7. Fold in the lemon zest, orange zest, and the floured fruit and nut mixture. If desired, stir in the brandy or rum for an extra layer of flavor.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Once baked, allow the fruit cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. For optimal flavor, wrap the cooled fruit cake in parchment paper and store it in an airtight container. You can drizzle some extra brandy or rum over the cake for added moistness and flavor if desired.
12. Serve slices of this delightful fruit cake with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat that embodies the essence of home and tradition.
This Good Old Fashioned Fruit Cake is a delightful dessert that will bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed alone, the blend of fruits, nuts, and spices in this cake is bound to evoke fond memories and create new ones. So why not try your hand at baking this timeless classic and let its delicious aroma fill your home with joy and cheer. Happy baking!
