Description
A delightful holiday treat, this moist fruitcake is packed with mixed dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, making it a perfect centerpiece for festive gatherings or an indulgent snack any time of year.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped apricots, and cranberries)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup brandy (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a loaf pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts.
- In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- In a third bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, brown sugar, honey, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange juice until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined, and fold in the brandy if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For extra indulgence, serve with whipped cream or ice cream. It tastes even better after resting a day or two.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American