Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

Indulge in the rich aroma of spices and plump fruits with our Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style). This delightful cake is perfect for any celebration, bringing a touch of tradition to your gatherings. Its unique blend of flavors ensures that every slice is moist and satisfying, making it a favorite among fruit cake lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even novice bakers can create this delicious cake.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of dried fruits and spices creates a rich taste that tantalizes your palate.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion, this fruit cake is sure to impress.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the butter and fruit juices, each slice remains moist and flavorful.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts and dried fruits for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s vital to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Loaf pan (9×5-inch)
• Parchment paper
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining your wet and dry ingredients without any spills.
• Loaf pan: A sturdy loaf pan ensures even baking, helping your cake rise beautifully.
• Spatula: Use a spatula for easy mixing and folding in fruits and nuts, ensuring you don’t deflate the batter.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style), you’ll need:

For the Cake Base

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits
• 1 cup chopped nuts
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Moisture

• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup apple juice or vanilla extract (alcohol-free)

How to Make Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when you bake the cake.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Assemble all ingredients on a clean workspace.
2. Measure and chop dried fruits and nuts into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. Soften butter at room temperature for easy creaming.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time to the mixture, mixing until smooth after each addition.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix dry ingredients with wet ingredients, alternating with orange juice until well combined.

Step 7: Fold in Fruits and Nuts

Gently fold in dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

1. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Step 9: Bake Your Cake

Bake for 60-75 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Now you have a delightful Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style) ready to be enjoyed by all!

How to Serve Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

Serving your Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style) can elevate the experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this delicious cake.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the rich flavors of the fruit cake.

Paired with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy a slice with your favorite cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat that complements the spices perfectly.

As a Dessert Platter

• Serve slices alongside other desserts on a platter for gatherings—it’s a beautiful way to showcase your baking skills.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the dense texture of the fruit cake, making it an indulgent dessert option.

Drizzled with Citrus Glaze

• A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice can add a refreshing sweetness that enhances each bite.

How to Perfect Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

Perfecting your Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style) takes practice, but these tips will guide you toward success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh dried fruits and nuts. This ensures maximum flavor and moisture in your cake.
• Proper Mixing Technique: Mix wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing it. This prevents it from breaking apart.
• Store Correctly: Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add spices or citrus zest for additional flavor depth tailored to your preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

Pairing side dishes with your Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style) can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs beautifully with the sweetness of fruit cake, offering a savory balance.
2. Fresh Berries: Serve assorted fresh berries on the side for a burst of freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich cake.
3. Nut Mix: A bowl of lightly salted nuts complements the sweetness while providing crunch—a great snack option alongside slices.
4. Cinnamon Applesauce: The warm flavors of cinnamon applesauce bring out spice notes in the cake, making it comforting and homely.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over slices for an indulgent touch that elevates each bite.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing side dish that provides a creamy contrast to the dense cake.
7. Roasted Vegetables: For a savory option, serve roasted seasonal vegetables which can provide a hearty balance against sweeter dishes.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate while keeping things refreshing after enjoying rich slices of fruit cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style) requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure exact amounts for consistent results.
• Skipping the creaming process – Properly cream butter and sugar until fluffy for a lighter cake texture.
• Overmixing the batter – Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake; overmixing develops gluten in the flour.
• Ignoring baking time – Keep an eye on the oven and check for doneness with a toothpick; every oven is different, so adjust as needed.
• Using stale fruits or nuts – Fresh, quality ingredients enhance flavor; always check the freshness of dried fruits and nuts before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Wrap in plastic wrap before placing it in a container to maintain moisture.

Freezing Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for freezing.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months; label with the date.

Reheating Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

• Oven – Preheat to 300°F (150°C), place the cake wrapped in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style):

Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?

Fresh fruit has high moisture content, which can affect the cake’s structure. Stick with dried fruits for best results.

How can I make my Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style) more festive?

Add spices like cloves or cardamom, or include candied citrus peel for extra flavor and color.

What’s the best way to serve Never Fail Fruit Cake?

Serve at room temperature alongside whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Can I substitute butter with oil?

While you can use oil, butter adds flavor and richness that enhances the cake’s taste. If you prefer oil, consider using half butter and half oil for balance.

Final Thoughts

The Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style) is a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures. It’s perfect for any occasion and can easily be customized with your favorite dried fruits or nuts. Give this recipe a try – it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style)

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Experience the warmth and nostalgia of our Never Fail Fruit Cake (Old-Fashioned Style). This delightful cake is a perfect centerpiece for any gathering, blending a rich medley of dried fruits and spices into a moist, flavorful treat. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply indulging in a sweet moment, this cake promises to satisfy. Its straightforward preparation makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, while the versatility of ingredients allows you to customize each bite with your favorite nuts and fruits. With its irresistible aroma and satisfying texture, this fruit cake is sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits
• 1 cup chopped nuts
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup apple juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Gather and measure all ingredients; chop dried fruits and nuts into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth after each addition.
5. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture, alternating with orange juice until well blended.
7. Fold in dried fruits and nuts gently until evenly distributed.
8. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper; pour batter in and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 60-75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
• Calories: 365
• Sugar: 32g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 88mg