Fruit Cake Recipe Easy
This easy Fruit Cake Recipe is moist, festive, and simple enough for weekday baking yet special enough for the holidays. With dried fruits, warm flavor, and no fussy steps, it's the perfect blend of tradition and everyday comfort.
Equipment
- Loaf Pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Hand mixer or whisk
Ingredients
Core Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits such as raisins, cherries, cranberries, apricots
- 1 cup flour all-purpose
- 0.5 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
Optional Flavor Boosts
- 2 tbsp orange juice optional
- 0.5 tsp almond extract optional
- 1 tbsp rum or brandy optional for holiday flavor
Instructions
- Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Optionally toss dried fruits in 1 tbsp flour to prevent sinking.
- In a large bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and optional flavor boosts.
- Fold in dry ingredients until just combined. Gently stir in the dried fruits.
- Pour batter into the loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with just a few crumbs.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Make it your own with nuts, citrus zest, or a light glaze. For a holiday twist, soak dried fruits in tea or rum overnight before using. Store in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze for later.