There’s something truly special about a homemade fruit cake—rich, moist, and packed with warm spices, dried fruits, and crunchy nuts. Whether you’re making it for the holidays or just craving a classic, old-fashioned treat, this perfect fruit cake recipe delivers every time!
With a beautifully balanced mix of brown sugar, citrusy orange juice, aromatic spices, and a splash of brandy (optional but highly recommended!), this cake is anything but dry or boring. It’s dense yet tender, flavorful yet not overpowering, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Fruit Cake
- Moist and rich – No dry, crumbly fruit cake here
- Loaded with fruits and nuts – Every bite is packed with delicious texture
- Perfectly spiced – A warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice
- Make-ahead friendly – The flavors deepen over time, making it even better after a few days
- Holiday favorite – A must-have for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or special occasions
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) – Adds richness and moisture
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed) – Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness
- 4 large eggs – Helps bind the cake and give it structure
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the cake
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Gives the cake a slight lift
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps balance the acidity of the orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Warm and aromatic
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds depth of flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice – Brings a hint of warmth and complexity
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves – Complements the dried fruits beautifully
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors
- 1/2 cup orange juice – Keeps the cake moist and adds a citrusy brightness
- 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional) – Adds a classic holiday flavor
For the Mix-Ins:
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, chopped apricots) – The heart of a great fruit cake
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) – Adds a delightful crunch
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch loaf pan or round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
How to Make the Perfect Fruit Cake
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch loaf pan (or round cake pan) and line it with parchment paper for easy removal
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit & Nuts
In a small bowl, toss the dried fruits and nuts with 2 tablespoons of flour (taken from the measured flour) to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake
Step 3: Cream the Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes)
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition
Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt
Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice and brandy/rum (if using). Mix until just combined
Step 7: Fold in Fruits & Nuts
Gently fold in the floured dried fruits and nuts. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 8: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
Step 9: Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
What to Serve with Fruit Cake
- A cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist
- A drizzle of caramel or honey for added sweetness
Tips for the Best Fruit Cake
- Use high-quality dried fruits for the best flavor and texture
- Soak the dried fruits in orange juice or brandy overnight for extra moisture
- Don’t overmix the batter—just stir until combined to keep the cake tender
- Let it rest before serving—fruit cake tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors develop
- Store properly—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container to keep it moist
Storage Instructions
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- In the Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving
- Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this fruit cake without alcohol?
Yes! Simply replace the brandy/rum with extra orange juice or apple juice
How do I prevent my fruit cake from drying out?
Store it properly in an airtight container and brush it with a little orange juice or brandy every few days to keep it moist
Can I add candied fruit instead of dried fruit?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chopped candied cherries, pineapple, or other festive fruits
Can I make this fruit cake ahead of time?
Yes! Fruit cakes taste even better after a few days as the flavors develop, making it a great make-ahead dessert
More Delicious Cake Recipes to Try
If you love this perfect fruit cake recipe, you’ll enjoy these other rich and flavorful cakes
- Best Yogurt Cake – Light, fluffy, and incredibly moist with a hint of tanginess
- Quick Keto Pancake in a Mug – A low-carb treat ready in minutes
- Pineapple Coconut God Bless America Cake – A tropical twist on a classic dessert
Final Thoughts
This perfect fruit cake is everything a fruit cake should be—moist, flavorful, and filled with delicious fruits and nuts. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy homemade treat, this recipe is guaranteed to impress
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below, share your photos on Pinterest, and don’t forget to save this recipe for later!
Happy Baking! 🍰✨
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Perfect Fruit Cake Recipe – Rich, Moist & Packed with Flavor!
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Perfect Fruit Cake Recipe is rich, moist, and packed with warm spices, dried fruits, and crunchy nuts. Infused with orange juice and an optional splash of brandy, this classic fruit cake is anything but dry. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion, it gets even better as it sits. Try this easy, flavorful fruit cake today!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, chopped apricots)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch loaf pan or round cake pan. Line with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, toss the dried fruits and nuts with 2 tablespoons of flour (from the measured flour) to prevent sinking.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice and brandy/rum (if using). Stir until just combined.
- Fold in the floured dried fruits and nuts, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For extra moisture, soak the dried fruits in orange juice or brandy overnight.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Make ahead – the flavors develop even more after a day or two.
- Store at room temperature for 3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: perfect fruit cake, moist fruit cake, holiday fruit cake, Christmas cake, fruit and nut cake, spiced fruit cake