Heavenly Moist Fruit Cake Loaf That Everyone Will Love

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Fruit Cake Loaf is a delightful treat that has garnered love throughout the year, not just during the holidays. This Heavenly Moist Fruit Cake Loaf Recipe is simple yet packed with flavors that remind you of cozy gatherings and festive celebrations. You don’t need to soak the fruits or use alcohol, making it a perfect choice for all ages. With its tender crumb and a medley of dried fruits and nuts, this loaf is sure to be a favorite on your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Fruit Cake Loaf

This fruit loaf will charm your taste buds for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly moist and flavorful, thanks to the combination of butter and brown sugar. Second, you can whip it up in just over an hour, making it an easy fruit cake loaf recipe for any occasion. Third, it’s versatile; you can enjoy it plain or with icing, and it’s perfect for Christmas or any day of the year. This homemade fruit cake loaf is also vegetarian, appealing to a wider audience. Plus, it pairs beautifully with tea, making it a comforting treat at any time. Finally, it can be gifted to loved ones, showcasing your baking prowess!

Ingredients for Fruit Cake Loaf

Gather these items:

1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup (60ml) milk
1 cup (150g) mixed dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, cherries, apricots)
1/2 cup (60g) chopped nuts (optional – walnuts or pecans)
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Fruit Cake Loaf Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Stir in dried fruits and nuts gently until evenly distributed.
Step 7: Transfer batter to the loaf pan, smooth the top, and bake 50–60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool 10 minutes in pan, then remove and cool completely. Mix glaze ingredients and drizzle over loaf if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Fruit Cake Loaf

Keep these in mind:

This cake can be enjoyed any time of the year.
It pairs well with tea.
Consider gifting it to loved ones.
Store in an airtight container for freshness.
For a gluten-free fruit cake loaf, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Best Ways to Serve Fruit Cake Loaf

Enjoy this fruitcake bread plain or elevate it with a drizzle of icing. You can also serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This fruit cake loaf for Christmas is a festive centerpiece that delights everyone!

How to Store and Reheat Fruit Cake Loaf

To keep this loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will last for several days. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply slice and microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fruit Cake Loaf

What’s the secret to perfect Fruit Cake Loaf?

The secret lies in the balance of moist ingredients and dry ingredients. Using quality dried fruits and nuts enhances the flavor, making your moist fruitcake loaf even better.

Can I make Fruit Cake Loaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make this traditional fruit cake loaf a day or two in advance. Just store it properly, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld together.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Fruit Cake Loaf?

To avoid common pitfalls, measure your ingredients accurately and don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light and fluffy one.

Variations of Fruit Cake Loaf You Can Try

There are many exciting variations of this classic fruit cake loaf recipe. Consider adding orange zest for a citrus twist or swapping out dried fruits for your favorites. You can also create a fruit cake loaf with nuts for added crunch or a gluten-free fruit cake loaf by using alternative flours. Each variation gives a unique spin to this beloved recipe!

For more delicious recipes, check out Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies or Deviled Egg Christmas Trees. If you’re interested in baking tips, visit King Arthur Baking for expert advice.