Name: Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf: 12 Ways to Celebrate Deliciously
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-491614H36M45S
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Christmas
Ingredients: 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon mixed spice (or cinnamon, nutmeg & cloves); ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200g) brown sugar; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons honey or molasses; ½ cup (120ml) orange juice or brandy; 2 cups (300g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, cherries, currants, chopped dates, etc.); ¼ cup (30g) chopped nuts (optional); 1 tablespoon grated orange zest

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Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf is a rich, festive, and beautifully spiced holiday loaf filled with juicy dried fruits and warm seasonal flavors. This delightful treat is perfect for Christmas gatherings, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cozy cup of tea. The aroma of baking this loaf fills your home with a sense of comfort and joy, making it a must-have for the festive season.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf

There are countless reasons to love this Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf. First, it’s incredibly moist thanks to the combination of butter and soaked dried fruits. Second, it’s bursting with flavor from spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making it a true holiday delight. Third, this loaf is versatile; it can be enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet snack. Fourth, it’s perfect for sharing, making it an excellent gift for friends and family. Fifth, you can easily customize it with your favorite nuts or citrus zest. Sixth, it truly embodies the spirit of the festive season, bringing everyone together. Plus, this recipe is a fun way to create traditions around baking with loved ones!

Ingredients for Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf

Gather these items:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon mixed spice (or cinnamon, nutmeg & cloves)
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) brown sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons honey or molasses
½ cup (120ml) orange juice or brandy
2 cups (300g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, cherries, currants, chopped dates, etc.)
¼ cup (30g) chopped nuts (optional)
1 tablespoon grated orange zest

How to Make Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine dried fruits with orange juice (or brandy). Let them soak for at least 1 hour — overnight gives the deepest flavor.
Step 3: In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, mixed spice, and salt.
Step 4: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Mix in eggs one at a time, beating well. Then add vanilla, honey/molasses, and orange zest.
Step 6: Add the soaked fruits (with remaining liquid) and gently fold. Add nuts if using.
Step 7: Fold in the dry ingredients just until combined — do not overmix.
Step 8: Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan, smooth the top, and bake for 70–80 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.
Step 9: Allow the loaf to cool fully in the pan before slicing to keep it moist and intact.

Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf: 12 Ways to Celebrate Deliciously - Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf

Keep these in mind:

Soaking the dried fruits not only enhances flavor but also ensures a moist fruit cake for Christmas.
Don’t overmix the batter to prevent a dense loaf.
Feel free to experiment with gluten-free Christmas fruitcake loaf by substituting with gluten-free flour.
Storage is key; keep the loaf wrapped tightly to maintain its moisture.
This is a fantastic option for gifting, making the homemade Christmas fruitcake loaf truly special.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf

There are many delightful ways to serve your Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf. Try it warm, with a smear of butter for a comforting treat. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a festive dessert. For a unique twist, slice it and layer it into a trifle with custard and cream. Don’t forget to include a side of spiced tea or mulled wine for the ultimate holiday experience.

Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf: 12 Ways to Celebrate Deliciously - Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf

To keep your Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the loaf. Simply slice it before freezing, then reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy. This is an easy fruitcake loaf recipe for holidays that can be made ahead of time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf?

The secret lies in soaking the dried fruits, allowing them to absorb flavors and moisture, resulting in a rich fruit loaf for holiday gatherings.

Can I make Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! This loaf can be baked up to a week in advance. Just store it properly to ensure it remains moist and flavorful.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf?

To avoid mistakes, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature and measure accurately. Don’t overmix the batter to keep it light and fluffy.

Variations of Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, try these variations of the Christmas Fruit Cake Loaf: add spices like ginger for a Christmas spiced fruit loaf, or swap the nuts for seeds for a nut-free option. You can even make a vegan Christmas fruit cake recipe by substituting eggs with flax eggs and butter with coconut oil. Each variation brings a unique twist to this classic fruit cake for the festive season!

For more delicious recipes, check out Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler, Vegan Berry Crisp, Lemon Curd Loaf Cake, Irresistible Peach Upside Down Mini Cakes, and Pumpkin Coffee Cake.