Ah, the holiday season! A time filled with joy, laughter, and, of course, delicious treats. One of my all-time favorites is the Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts. This traditional delight is not just a cake; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings back warm memories of family gatherings. I know how busy life can get, especially during the holidays, so this recipe is a quick solution for those hectic days. It’s perfect for impressing your loved ones or simply indulging yourself. Trust me, this fruitcake will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts

This Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, even on the busiest days. The rich, nutty goodness combined with the sweetness of dried fruits creates a festive treat that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dessert, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends during the holidays!

Ingredients for Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixed dried fruits: A combination of raisins, cranberries, and apricots adds sweetness and chewiness.
Chopped nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or almonds bring a delightful crunch and richness to the cake.
All-purpose flour: This is the base of your cake, providing structure and stability.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise, making it light and fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: This warm spice adds a cozy aroma and flavor, perfect for the holidays.
Ground nutmeg: A little nutmeg goes a long way in adding depth to your fruitcake.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter creates a rich, moist texture in the cake.
Brown sugar: This adds a lovely caramel flavor and moisture to the cake.
Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
Orange juice: Fresh orange juice brightens the flavors and adds a hint of citrus.
Brandy or rum (optional): A splash of your favorite spirit can elevate the flavor, making it even more festive.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This step is crucial for a perfectly baked Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts. While the oven warms up, grease a loaf pan to ensure your cake slides out easily once it’s baked. Trust me, no one wants a cake disaster on the holiday table!

Step 2: Mix Dried Fruits and Nuts

In a bowl, toss your mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts with a tablespoon of flour. This little trick helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake. It’s like giving them a cozy blanket to stay afloat in the batter!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients is the backbone of your fruitcake, giving it structure and flavor. Make sure to mix well; you want every bite to be delicious!

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Now, grab a large mixing bowl and cream the softened unsalted butter with brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is where the magic begins! The fluffy texture will help create a moist cake that melts in your mouth.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Juices

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures they’re fully incorporated. Then, stir in the orange juice and, if you’re feeling festive, the optional brandy or rum. The citrus and spirit will elevate the flavors, making your fruitcake truly special!

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cake, not a tough one! This is where the magic of the Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts starts to come together.

Step 7: Fold in Fruits and Nuts

Gently fold in the fruit and nut mixture. This step is like a warm hug for your cake! Make sure the fruits and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the batter for a delightful surprise in every slice.

Step 8: Bake the Fruitcake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Pop it in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the fruitcake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once cooled, slice it up and get ready to enjoy a slice of holiday joy!

Tips for Success

Soak your dried fruits in brandy overnight for extra flavor.
Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Don’t skip the flour coating on fruits and nuts; it really helps!
Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Let the cake cool completely for the best texture and flavor.

Equipment Needed

Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best, but any similar-sized pan will do.
Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
Whisk: A whisk is perfect for combining dry ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: A rubber spatula helps fold in the fruits and nuts smoothly.
Toothpick: Essential for checking if your cake is done baking.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for an extra kick of holiday spice.
Nut-Free: Omit the nuts and replace them with additional dried fruits or seeds for a nut-free version.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in some dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist on the traditional recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with tea: A warm cup of spiced chai or herbal tea complements the flavors beautifully.
Dust with powdered sugar: A light sprinkle adds a festive touch to your Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts.
Serve with whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream enhances the cake’s richness.
Presentation: Arrange slices on a decorative platter with fresh fruit for a colorful display.

FAQs about Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts

Can I make this Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few days in advance allows the flavors to deepen. Just store it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for weeks!

What types of nuts work best in this fruitcake?

I love using walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Each adds a unique flavor and texture, but feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!

Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?

While dried fruits are traditional for this Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts, you can use fresh fruits. Just be aware that they may alter the cake’s texture and moisture content.

Is it possible to make this recipe alcohol-free?

Yes! Simply omit the brandy or rum. You can replace it with extra orange juice for a delightful flavor without the alcohol.

How should I store my fruitcake?

Store your Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for several weeks, making it a perfect make-ahead treat!

Final Thoughts

As the holiday season approaches, there’s something truly magical about baking a Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts. The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the vibrant colors of dried fruits, and the crunch of nuts create a symphony of joy. This recipe not only brings delicious flavors to your table but also creates cherished memories with loved ones. Whether you’re sharing slices with family or gifting a loaf to a friend, this fruitcake embodies the spirit of togetherness. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the holiday cheer, and let this delightful cake become a part of your festive traditions!

Holiday Fruitcake with Nuts: Taste the Tradition Today!

Author: Chef Shana
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 servings)
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A traditional holiday fruitcake packed with nuts and dried fruits, perfect for festive celebrations.

Ingredients

2 cups mixed dried fruits
1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a bowl, mix the dried fruits and nuts with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the orange juice and brandy (if using).
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the fruit and nut mixture.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the fruitcake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Fruitcake can be stored for several weeks in an airtight container.
For added flavor, consider soaking the dried fruits in brandy overnight before baking.
This cake can be served plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar on top.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American