This Ultimate Fruit Cake Loaf is a tender, buttery loaf loaded with colorful candied fruits, raisins, and warm spices. It’s easy to make, beautifully aromatic, and keeps well — making it the perfect make-ahead treat for Christmas or special occasions. Whether served plain or glazed, it’s guaranteed to impress!
⏱️ Prep Time
- Prep: 20 minutes
- Cook: 1 hour
- Total: 1 hour 20 minutes
🍳 Equipment
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Rubber spatula
- Parchment paper
🧂 Ingredients
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- ½ cup milk
For the Fruit Mix:
- 1½ cups mixed dried or candied fruits (cherries, pineapple, citrus peel, etc.)
- ½ cup raisins or sultanas
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for coating fruits)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
📝 Ingredient Notes
- Fruits: Use a mix of colorful candied fruits for a festive look.
- Nuts: Optional but add great crunch and richness.
- Flour Coating: Prevents fruits from sinking to the bottom during baking.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg give a warm, traditional holiday flavor.
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
Line your loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Mixture
In a small bowl, toss candied fruits, raisins, and nuts with 2 tablespoons of flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in vanilla and almond extract.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, starting and ending with flour.
Step 5: Fold in Fruits
Gently fold the floured fruit mixture into the batter with a spatula until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and serve plain or drizzle with a light sugar glaze.
🍴 Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, 1 of 12)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
💡 Tips & Variations
- Soak fruits overnight in orange juice or rum for extra flavor.
- Add lemon or orange zest to brighten up the loaf.
- Store wrapped in plastic or foil at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Brush with a light sugar syrup after baking for extra shine and moisture.
