Description
A richly spiced fruit cake brimming with warm flavors, ideal for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, or chopped dried cherries)
- 1/2 cup candied citrus peel, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 cup rum or brandy for soaking
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the molasses.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the nuts, dried fruits, and candied peel. Soak dried fruits in rum or brandy if desired.
- Grease and flour a 9-inch pan and pour in the batter.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean; cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan then on a wire rack.
Notes
For best results, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing.