A rich and moist fruit cake filled with brandy-soaked dried fruit, warm spices, and buttery flavor. Ideal for holiday gifting, long-term storage, and cozy winter celebrations.
Fruit Soak:
1 cup raisins
1 cup currants
1/2 cup chopped dates
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup candied citrus peel
3/4 cup brandy or orange juice
Cake Batter:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp allspice
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 tbsp molasses or golden syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Soak dried fruits overnight in brandy or juice.
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line and grease a loaf or round cake pan.
Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time. Mix in molasses, vanilla, and zest.
Sift in dry ingredients. Fold gently to combine.
Drain and fold in soaked fruit and nuts.
Pour batter into pan. Bake for 90–120 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool, then brush with extra brandy if desired. Wrap and store.
Best made 1–2 weeks ahead. Re-brush weekly with brandy or juice for a deeper flavor.