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Moist Fruit Cake

The Best Moist Fruit Cake Recipe for Holiday Cheer

Course: Cake
Cuisine: Holiday
Keyword: Baking, Festive Cake, Fruit Cake, Gift-Worthy Cake, holiday dessert, Moist Fruit Cake
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Soaking Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 9 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: 300kcal
This Moist Fruit Cake is a delightful holiday treat, combining sweet dried fruits with cozy spices for a festive experience.
Print Recipe

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • 9-inch Loaf Pan
  • Parchment Paper
  • Oven

Ingredients

Moist Fruit Cake Ingredients

  • 2 cups Mixed Dried Fruits Combination of raisins, currants, and dried apricots
  • ¾ cup Soaking Liquid Orange juice for a non-alcoholic version
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Room temperature for optimal creaming
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar Light or dark for added moisture
  • 4 large Eggs Room temperature to avoid curdling
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute ¼ cup with almond flour if desired
  • teaspoon Baking Powder For perfect rise
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon Nutmeg
  • 1 pinch Allspice
  • 1 tablespoon Citrus Zest Freshly grated orange or lemon zest
  • ½ cup Chopped Nuts Optional; walnuts or pecans work well
  • 2 tablespoon Milk To loosen the batter

Instructions

How to Make Moist Fruit Cake

  • Soak your mixed dried fruits in the chosen soaking liquid overnight for the best flavor infusion. If short on time, simmer them for 5–10 minutes until plump.
  • Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). While waiting, grease and line a 9-inch loaf or 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until everything is smoothly combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices, and pinch of salt for even distribution.
  • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Once incorporated, add the soaked fruits, citrus zest, and optional nuts, mixing just until combined.
  • Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 70–85 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
  • Cool the cake in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Optionally, brush the top with rum or syrup while warm.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and enjoy!

Notes

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 300kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 150mg | Potassium: 150mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 400IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg