Ultra-Soft Butter Fruit Cake (9 Irresistible Reasons This Vanilla-Scented Classic Never Fails)

Thank you so much for being here — I’m genuinely happy you are. This Ultra-Soft Butter Fruit Cake with Plump Dried Fruits and Vanilla Aroma is the kind of cake that feels timeless, elegant, and deeply comforting. It’s not the heavy holiday fruitcake you might be thinking of — this one is light, tender, buttery, and perfumed with vanilla, with just enough dried fruit to make every slice special.

This is a cake I bake when I want something dependable and beautiful, the kind that pairs perfectly with afternoon tea or a quiet evening coffee. And before we dive in, don’t forget to subscribe by email so you never miss a cozy, classic bake from my kitchen to yours

Overview of Ultra-Soft Butter Fruit Cake

This cake relies on proper creaming, gentle mixing, and simple pantry ingredients to achieve its signature ultra-soft crumb. The dried fruits add sweetness and moisture without overwhelming the buttery vanilla base.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Exceptionally soft, tender texture
• Rich butter flavor with warm vanilla aroma
• Light fruit distribution in every bite
• Perfect for everyday baking or special occasions

What It Tastes Like

Buttery and smooth with a delicate vanilla finish, balanced by plump, sweet dried fruits. It’s refined, comforting, and never overly sweet.

Ingredients

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Ultra-Soft Butter Fruit Cake Batter

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, chopped dates, or cranberries)

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• 8-inch round pan or loaf pan
• Parchment paper

Suggested Substitutions & Additions

• Fruit options: raisins only, golden raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots
• Extra aroma: add lemon or orange zest
• Spice option: ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg
• Richer crumb: replace 2 tablespoons milk with sour cream

How to Make Ultra-Soft Butter Fruit Cake

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Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar

Beat butter and sugar until pale, fluffy, and creamy — about 3–4 minutes. This step is key for a soft crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs & Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Alternate Milk & Flour

Add dry ingredients in batches, alternating with milk. Mix gently just until combined.

Step 6: Fold in Dried Fruits

Gently fold in dried fruits, ensuring even distribution.

Step 7: Bake

Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40–50 minutes, until golden and a skewer comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.

What to Serve with Butter Fruit Cake

• Hot tea or cappuccino
• Light dusting of powdered sugar
• Butter or clotted cream
• Fresh berries on the side

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Use room-temperature eggs and milk
• Cream butter thoroughly — don’t rush
• Toss dried fruits lightly in flour to prevent sinking
• Avoid overmixing after adding flour

Storage Instructions

• Room temperature: up to 4 days, wrapped
• Refrigerator: up to 7 days
• Freezer: slice and freeze up to 2 months

General Information

Unlike traditional dense fruitcakes, this butter fruit cake is inspired by classic American and British teatime cakes — lighter, softer, and meant to be enjoyed year-round rather than just during holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cake heavy?
Not at all — it’s light and tender with a fine crumb.

Can I soak the dried fruit?
Yes! Warm water, juice, or tea works beautifully.

Can I bake this as cupcakes?
Absolutely — bake 18–22 minutes.

More Relevant Recipes You’ll Love

• Raisin-Only Fruit Cake
  https://poulef.com/raisin-only-fruit-cake
• Ultra-Soft Crumb Fruit Cake
  https://poulef.com/ultra-soft-crumb-fruit-cake

Pinterest inspiration https://www.pinterest.com/poulefrecipe/

Conclusion

This Ultra-Soft Butter Fruit Cake is proof that classic baking never goes out of style. Soft, buttery, gently sweet, and beautifully aromatic, it’s a cake you’ll come back to again and again.

Interactive Elements

Leave a review if you bake it
Share your cake on Pinterest or Instagram and tag @poulefrecipe

Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approx.)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	38g
Sugar	22g
Protein	5g

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