Name: Deliciously Rich Christmas Fruit Cake for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 210 min
Total time: 1680 min
Ingredients: 850 g Mixed Dried Fruit (blend of dried fruits); 100 ml Brandy (can substitute with sherry or dark rum); 1 tbsp Cointreau (optional); 1 tbsp Kirsch (optional); 235 g Butter or Baking Spread (softened); 235 g Dark Brown Soft Sugar (can substitute with light brown sugar); 4 large Eggs; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 235 g Plain Flour (can use gluten-free blend); 100 g Ground Almonds (can replace with flour if nut-free); 0.5 tsp Baking Powder; 1.5 tsp Mixed Spice (or Pumpkin Spice); 0.5 tsp Cinnamon; 0.25 tsp Ground Cloves; 0.25 tsp Nutmeg; 100 g Glace Cherries (chopped)

As I rummaged through my grandmother’s old recipe box, the scent of spices and dried fruit wafted up like a warm hug from the past. It instantly took me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and the rich, comforting taste of Christmas Fruit Cake. This cherished recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a holiday tradition that brings people together, celebrated for its delightful moisture and deep flavor, thanks to a good soaking in brandy. Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or a busy parent looking for a captivating festive bake, this straightforward and adaptable recipe is perfect for any occasion—not just during the holiday season. Ready to create a cake bursting with festive spirit? Let’s dive in and make something special together!

Why is this Christmas Fruit Cake a must-try?

Rich, Festive Flavor: This Christmas Fruit Cake is packed with dried fruits soaked in brandy, delivering the ultimate holiday taste.

Adaptable Delight: Whether you prefer alcohol or a non-alcoholic option, this recipe allows for tasty variations to suit every palate.

Simple Process: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll create a show-stopping cake without the stress, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.

Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Serve it during holiday gatherings, and watch your friends and family rave about its delicious moisture and texture—it’s a true crowd-pleaser!

Long-lasting Joy: This cake stores beautifully, making it a wonderful make-ahead treat. Enjoy it fresh or let it develop even more flavor by feeding it with brandy!

If you’re looking for other festive recipes, don’t miss making Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or a stunning Caramel Brownie Cheesecake!

Christmas Fruit Cake Ingredients

For the Fruit Mixture
• Mixed Dried Fruit – 850g, this blend offers natural sweetness and texture; feel free to use a premixed dried fruit bag for convenience.
• Brandy – 100ml, soaks the fruit for depth and richness; substitute with sherry or dark rum for a different twist, or try cold tea for a non-alcoholic version.
• Cointreau (optional) – 1 tbsp, enhances the flavor profile; if you skip this, toss in extra brandy instead.
• Kirsch (optional) – 1 tbsp, adds a fruity note; you can replace it with an equal amount of brandy.

For the Cake Batter
• Butter or Baking Spread – 235g, softened, provides moisture; for dairy-free alternatives, use Flora Plant or Stork Baking Block.
• Dark Brown Soft Sugar – 235g, adds caramel flavor; light brown soft sugar or dark muscovado works as a great substitution.
• Eggs – 4 large, crucial for binding and moisture.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp, boosts flavor.
• Plain Flour – 235g, gives structure; use a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Ground Almonds – 100g, adds texture and flavor; if nut-free, replace with flour of the same weight.
• Baking Powder – ½ tsp, ensures the cake rises nicely.
• Mixed Spice – 1 ½ tsp, a traditional spice blend; swap for Pumpkin Spice or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves if you prefer.
• Cinnamon – ½ tsp, brings warmth to each bite.
• Ground Cloves – ¼ tsp, introduces a subtle spice note.
• Nutmeg – ¼ tsp, enhances overall spiciness.
• Glace Cherries – 100g, chopped, add sweetness and a splash of color.

This Christmas Fruit Cake recipe is sure to enchant your holidays with its rich flavors and delightful moisture!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Fruit Cake

Step 1: Soak the Fruit
In a large bowl, combine the mixed dried fruit with brandy and any optional spirits like Cointreau or Kirsch. Cover the bowl and let the mixture soak overnight at room temperature. This step is crucial for ensuring your Christmas Fruit Cake develops rich flavors and maintains moisture.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Tin
Preheat your oven to 120°C (275°F). While it heats, grease an 8-inch deep cake tin thoroughly with butter or baking spread. Then, double line the tin with baking parchment, ensuring it extends above the edges to prevent over-browning. This preparation is essential for a perfectly baked cake.

Step 3: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and dark brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and finish with vanilla extract. This step creates a rich base for your Christmas Fruit Cake.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and mixed spice. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet batter using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should remain thick and well-blended, forming the structure of your cake.

Step 5: Fold in the Soaked Fruit
Gently fold in the soaked fruit mixture along with the chopped glace cherries, ensuring everything is evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step not only adds moisture and flavor but also gives your Christmas Fruit Cake a delightfully festive appearance filled with colorful fruits.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 3 ½ hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake is done when it has a deep brown color and a firm, springy texture.

Step 7: Drizzle with Brandy
Once the cake is out of the oven, allow it to cool in the tin for about 15 minutes. Then, poke holes on the surface using a skewer and drizzle the remaining brandy over the warm cake. This step infuses extra flavor and moisture, enhancing the Christmas Fruit Cake’s rich taste.

Step 8: Cool and Store
Carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in baking paper and then foil, storing it in an airtight container. For added flavor, you can “feed” the cake with brandy every 1-2 weeks. This allows the flavors to deepen, ensuring your Christmas Fruit Cake is truly memorable.

Expert Tips for Christmas Fruit Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Let all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, come to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Precise Measurements: Use a digital scale for accurate ingredient quantities, ensuring your Christmas Fruit Cake bakes perfectly every time.

Feed the Cake: Consider feeding your cake with brandy every week. This helps enhance its moisture and deepens the flavor as it ages.

Don’t Rush Baking: Bake low and slow. At 120°C (275°F), your cake can take up to 3 ½ hours; patience is key for richness and moistness.

Customization Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of alcohol for soaking or include nuts and other fruits based on your preferences.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Fruit Cake

Fridge: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in baking paper and foil, then store in an airtight container for up to 10 weeks. This keeps the Christmas Fruit Cake moist and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wrapped cake for up to a year. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it, preserving its delicious texture.

Feeding the Cake: If desired, “feed” your cake with brandy every 1-2 weeks while it’s in storage. This enhances its flavor and helps maintain moisture over time.

Serving: Allow the cake to reach room temperature before serving, as this brings out its rich flavors and delightful moisture, making it a festive treat for gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Fruit Cakes are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can soak the mixed dried fruit in brandy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can make the cake batter a day ahead; simply prepare everything up to Step 5, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. On baking day, just fold in the soaked fruit and continue with the final steps. To maintain the cake’s moisture and richness, wrap it tightly in baking paper and foil once cooled, then store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, just drizzle with additional brandy for that extra festive touch!

What to Serve with Christmas Fruit Cake

Indulging in a slice of this festive cake inspires a longing for delightful companions on your holiday table.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness provides a comforting texture that beautifully complements the dense, spiced cake.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced drink enhances the cake’s flavors while inviting a cozy atmosphere for your holiday gatherings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, cold creaminess contrasts with the cake’s richness, creating a harmonious balance of temperature and flavor.
Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea adds a comforting aroma and warmth, enhancing the festive experience while enjoying the cake.
Chocolate Fondue: Fondue’s rich chocolate pairs beautifully with slices of fruit cake for a luxurious and interactive dessert experience.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this sweet sauce over each slice elevates the cake’s indulgence factor, making it even more irresistible for guests.
Roasted Nuts: Crunchy, salty nuts serve as a perfect textural contrast, balancing the sweet, dense cake with satisfying bites of crunch.
Christmas Punch: This fruity, sparkling drink adds a refreshing zing, beautifully cutting through the cake’s richness while enhancing the holiday spirit.
Fruity Cheesecake: Offering a lighter yet indulgent alternative, a slice of cheesecake draws out the fruitiness of the cake while maintaining a celebratory vibe.

Christmas Fruit Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this Christmas Fruit Cake to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Alcohol-Free: Replace brandy with cold tea or fruit juice for soaking the dried fruits. This will keep the cake deliciously moist without the alcohol.
Nut-Free: Swap out ground almonds with the same weight of extra flour for a nut-free cake, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive treat.
Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend instead of plain flour. Your cake will still be rich and flavorful with this thoughtful swap!
Flavor Boost: Infuse extra zing by adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the batter. The citrus brightness beautifully complements the dried fruits.
Fruit Variation: Mix up the dried fruits by adding figs or dates alongside your current blend, giving your Christmas Fruit Cake new dimensions of flavor!
Heat Lovers: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the spice mix for a surprising and delightful kick in your cake.
Extra Moisture: Consider drizzling the cake with a spiced syrup made of apple juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar for an extra rich and moist touch.

For more seasonal indulgence, you might want to check out my recipe for Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon or a warm, comforting Roll Honeybun Cheesecake. Let your festive baking be a delightful adventure!

Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe dried fruit for this cake?
Absolutely! When choosing dried fruit, look for vibrant colors and a soft texture without any dark spots or excessive dryness. The fruit should be plump and fragrant; avoid any that seems overly sticky or has an odd smell. Freshness is key to creating that rich flavor in your Christmas Fruit Cake.

How should I store leftover Christmas Fruit Cake?
For optimal flavor retention, wrap your cooled Christmas Fruit Cake tightly in baking paper and foil, then place it in an airtight container. It will stay delicious for up to 10 weeks at room temperature. Alternatively, you can store it in the fridge if your home is quite warm; just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best taste!

Can I freeze my Christmas Fruit Cake? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Fruit Cake, first wrap it securely in baking paper and foil. Then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. It can be frozen for up to a year! When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. If you want to intensify its flavor, continue to “feed” the cake with brandy while it thaws.

What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If you find your Christmas Fruit Cake hasn’t risen, don’t worry! First, double-check your baking powder; it should be fresh and not expired. Ensure you’re creaming the butter and sugar thoroughly for enough air incorporation. Also, be gentle when folding in the dry ingredients—overmixing can cause the cake to collapse.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Certainly! To create a gluten-free version of your Christmas Fruit Cake, simply substitute plain flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure to check the blend’s instructions for any additional bonding agents, such as xanthan gum. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful holiday cake!

Is it safe for pets to consume this cake?
It’s best to keep your Christmas Fruit Cake away from pets. Ingredients like raisins and certain spices (like nutmeg) can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you want to share holiday treats, consider making a pet-friendly version specifically for them.