Perfect Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf 🎄

A classic, moist, and flavorful Christmas loaf filled with dried fruits, nuts, and warm holiday spices.
Rich, aromatic, and even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• 1 cup (250g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup (150g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, cherries, dates)
• ½ cup (120ml) dark rum or orange juice (for soaking fruits)
• ¼ cup (60ml) milk
• ½ cup (60g) chopped nuts (walnuts, cashew, or almond – optional)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp mixed spice (or blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp molasses or honey (for color and moisture)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 tbsp orange juice (fresh)

Instructions

1. Soak the fruits: Place dried fruits in a bowl and soak in rum or orange juice overnight, or for at least 3 hours. Drain before using and reserve leftover liquid.
2. Prepare the batter: Cream butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla, orange zest, and molasses.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, mixed spice, and salt.
4. Combine: Fold the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture alternately with milk and a bit of the reserved soaking liquid.
5. Add fruits & nuts: Gently fold in soaked fruits and chopped nuts. Add orange juice and mix until the batter is smooth and thick.
6. Bake: Pour into a greased and lined loaf pan. Smooth the top and bake at 160°C (320°F) for 70–80 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool & store: Let cool completely in the pan. Brush with rum or orange juice for extra moisture. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic and rest for 1–2 days before slicing.