Delicious and Nutrient-packed Festive Fruitcake Recipe

Indulge in the rich flavors of this classic Festive Fruitcake! Packed with an array of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, this delectable dessert is perfect for any celebration. This recipe yields a moist and tender cake that stays fresh for weeks, allowing you to enjoy the festivities for even longer. Prepare this crowd-pleasing dessert and enchant your guests with its delightful taste and inviting aroma.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, dried cherries, dried cranberries)
• 2 cups chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ½ cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons brandy or rum (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch (25 cm) tube pan or bundt pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried fruits and chopped nuts. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice.
6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the applesauce and orange juice. Mix well after each addition.
7. Stir in the brandy or rum (if using) and vanilla extract.
8. Fold in the dried fruit and nut mixture until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
10. Bake for approximately 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once the cake has cooled, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and enough orange juice to achieve a thick yet pourable consistency.
13. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides.
14. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving the festive fruitcake.

Interesting Facts