If you’re looking to bring a taste of holiday cheer to your table this season, look no further than this Easy Xmas Fruit Cake recipe. This traditional treat is perfect for bringing warmth, sweetness, and festive flavors to your home during the Christmas season. Packed with a delightful combination of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, this fruit cake is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your favorite apron, and let’s get baking!
**Easy Xmas Fruit Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and chopped apricots)
– 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well)
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup brandy or orange juice
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts. Toss well to mix evenly and set aside.
3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until everything is well combined.
7. Stir in the mixed dried fruits and nuts mixture until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Remove the fruit cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once the cake has cooled, brush the top with brandy or orange juice for an extra burst of flavor.
12. Serve your Easy Xmas Fruit Cake in thick slices with a cup of hot cocoa or a warm mug of tea, and enjoy the cozy vibes of the holiday season!
This Easy Xmas Fruit Cake is not only a delicious dessert but also a wonderful homemade gift idea for your loved ones. Wrap it in festive wrapping paper and tie it with a beautiful ribbon, and you’ll have a thoughtful present that’s sure to spread joy and holiday spirit. So, embrace the holiday baking season with this simple and delightful fruit cake recipe that will fill your home with the delicious scents of Christmas.
