Never Fail Fruit Cake

October 8, 2025 By admin

This Never Fail Fruit Cake is exactly what its name promises — a no-fuss, reliable recipe that comes out perfect every time. Packed with candied fruit, raisins, and nuts, this cake is rich, dense, and bursting with old-fashioned flavor. With its warm spices and tender crumb, it’s the ultimate Christmas or celebration cake that stays moist for weeks when stored properly.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
4 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp allspice
1 cup orange juice (or brandy for a traditional touch)
2 cups mixed candied fruit
1 cup raisins or currants

Instructions

Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
Grease and line a loaf pan or 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine and Add Fruits

Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with orange juice (or brandy).
Stir in candied fruit, raisins, and nuts until evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 1½ to 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool completely before removing from the pan.

Optional: Age the Cake

For richer flavor, wrap the cooled cake in cheesecloth soaked in brandy or fruit juice, then wrap in foil.
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks, re-soaking weekly if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Dust with powdered sugar or glaze with apricot jam for a festive finish.
Serve with hot tea, coffee, or mulled wine.
Perfect for holiday gifting — wrap in decorative paper or tins.

Storage & Reheating

Store wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the fridge for a month.
To serve warm, heat slices gently in the microwave for a few seconds.
Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.