Old-World Christmas Fruit Cake

Old-World Christmas Fruit Cake

Prep time: 20 mins | Bake time: 60-70 mins | Servings: 10-12

Ingredients

The Batter:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 cup orange juice or brandy

The Fruit & Nut Mix:

• 1 1/2 cups mixed candied fruits (cherries, orange peel, citron)

• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

• Extra whole cherries and pecans for topping

Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a deep 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

3. Add Eggs and Aromatics: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and orange juice (or brandy).

4. Toss the Fruit: In a small bowl, toss your mixed candied fruits and raisins with 2 tablespoons of the flour. This prevents the fruit from sinking to the bottom of the cake.

5. Combine: Sift the remaining flour, baking powder, and salt into the wet mixture. Fold gently until just combined. Fold in the floured fruit and chopped nuts.

6. Decorate and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Arrange the extra whole cherries and pecans on top in a decorative pattern. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.

7. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.