18 Grandma's Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe Get Ready To Indulge!

The Secret Ingredients

When it comes to making grandma's Christmas fruit cake, the secret lies in the ingredients. The key to a delicious and moist cake is using quality ingredients and taking the time to prepare them properly. The list may seem long, but trust me, it's worth it. For this recipe, you will need:

1. Candied Fruits

The star of the show, candied fruits are what give this cake its classic holiday flavor. Make sure to get a mix of red and green cherries, as well as diced citron and orange peel.

2. Nuts

For an added crunch and nutty flavor, chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts are a must. Toast them beforehand for an even richer taste.

3. Spices

No Christmas fruit cake is complete without a blend of warm and aromatic spices. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice are essential for that cozy holiday flavor.

4. Brandy or Rum

For an extra kick of flavor, brandy or rum can be added to the cake batter. This is entirely optional but highly recommended for adults.

5. Cake Flour

Using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour will result in a lighter and more tender cake. If you don't have cake flour on hand, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with cornstarch.

6. Eggs

Eggs are what hold the cake together and give it structure. Make sure to use room temperature eggs for best results.

7. Butter

Using unsalted butter will give you better control over the saltiness of the cake. Make sure to let the butter soften at room temperature before using it in the recipe.

8. Dark Brown Sugar

Dark brown sugar adds depth and richness to the cake. If you don't have any on hand, you can use a combination of white sugar and molasses.

9. Molasses

Molasses not only adds flavor but also helps keep the cake moist. If you don't have any, you can substitute with dark corn syrup.

10. Vanilla Extract

Last but not least, vanilla extract adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

The Preparation Process

Now that you have all your ingredients, it's time to start preparing for the baking process. Here are the steps to follow for the perfect grandma's Christmas fruit cake:

1. Soak the Fruits

The night before you plan to bake the cake, soak the candied fruits in brandy or rum to infuse them with flavor and keep them moist.

2. Toast the Nuts

Toast the chopped nuts in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let them cool before adding them to the batter.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the cake flour, spices, and salt until well combined.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugar

Cream the unsalted butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

5. Add in the Eggs

One at a time, add in the room temperature eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, making sure to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next.

6. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, making sure to mix well after each addition.

7. Fold in the Fruits and Nuts

Using a spatula, gently fold in the soaked fruits and toasted nuts into the batter until evenly distributed.

8. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased and lined 9-inch round cake pan. Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Let it Cool

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, slice and serve your delicious grandma's Christmas fruit cake with a cup of hot cocoa or your favorite holiday beverage. Now that you have the recipe for grandma's Christmas fruit cake, it's time to gather your ingredients and start baking. Trust me, your family and friends will thank you for this delicious and nostalgic holiday treat. Happy baking!