Here’s a recipe for a Fruit Cake featuring dried fruits and nuts.
Fruit Cake Recipe
Introduction:
A rich, moist fruit cake packed with dried fruits like apricots, raisins, and nuts. Perfect for festive occasions, this cake is full of flavor and offers a wonderful balance between the sweetness of the fruits and the crunchiness of the nuts. It can be enjoyed year-round or as a special treat during holidays.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup chopped mixed dried fruits (e.g., figs, dates)
- 1/4 cup candied ginger (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
- In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients gradually, alternating with milk and orange juice, until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped apricots, raisins, walnuts, and any additional dried fruits or nuts. Stir gently to combine.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy this delicious, moist fruit cake!
This cake can be stored in an airtight container and also improves in flavor after a few days. You can also wrap it in foil and keep it for a longer period for an even more intense taste!