Description
Indulge in the festive delight of our Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake, a rich and moist dessert perfect for any celebration. This cake is packed with a vibrant mix of dried fruits, candied ginger, and nuts, all lovingly soaked in a luscious alcohol-free vanilla syrup that elevates its flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a sweet gift, this easy-to-make fruit cake promises to impress your guests with its deliciously spiced aroma and delightful texture. With customizable ingredients, you can personalize it to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, apricots)
- 1 cup candied ginger, finely chopped
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (alcohol-free)
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free) or apple juice (plus extra for soaking)
- Zest of one orange
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, soak the dried fruits and candied ginger in orange juice and vanilla extract (alcohol-free) for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- Cream the unsalted butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract and orange zest.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients alternating with milk until just combined.
- Gently fold in the soaked fruits and nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1½ to 2 hours until done.
- For the soaking syrup, combine dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free) with honey and sugar in a saucepan; heat until dissolved.
- Once cooled, poke holes in the cake and pour syrup evenly over it; wrap tightly and let rest for at least 24 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (75g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg