Generations Fruitcake

Modern meets traditional in this delightful Generations Fruitcake recipe that has been passed down through the ages in my family. This fruitcake is rich, moist, and bursting with the sweet flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices. Whether you’re carrying on a cherished family tradition or starting a new one, this fruitcake is sure to become a favorite in your household as well.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup chopped dried figs
– 1 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1 cup golden raisins
– 1 cup chopped dates
– 1 cup candied cherries
– 1 cup candied pineapple
– 1 cup brandy
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1 tablespoon orange zest

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped pecans, walnuts, figs, apricots, raisins, dates, cherries, and pineapple. Pour the brandy over the fruit and nut mixture, ensuring everything is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature overnight to allow the fruits and nuts to absorb the brandy and plump up.

2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan and set aside.

3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice. Stir in the orange zest.

5. Gently fold the brandy-soaked fruit and nut mixture into the batter until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

7. Allow the fruitcake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, wrap the fruitcake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

8. For optimal flavor, let the fruitcake sit for a day or two before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a truly decadent treat that will have everyone coming back for more.

Enjoy a slice of this Generations Fruitcake with a hot cup of tea or coffee, and embrace the cozy warmth and nostalgia that comes with each bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of home, this fruitcake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and fill your heart with memories of generations past.