CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY FRUIT CAKE

mixed dried fruit

🥗Healthier: fresh fruit

💰Cheaper: raisins

Fresh fruit adds moisture but may alter texture.

dark rum

🥗Healthier: apple juice

💰Cheaper: water + vanilla extract

Apple juice adds sweetness without alcohol.

unsalted butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is dairy-free and adds a unique flavor.

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar is less processed and has a lower glycemic index.

Combine 1/2 cup each of orange peel, candied orange peel, dried pineapple, sweetened dried pineapple, sweetened dried dates, green cherries, maraschino cherries, and raisins in a bowl.

Add 3.2 oz of bourbon whiskey and 3/4 cup of orange juice to the fruit mix, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.

Sift together 1 2/3 cups self-rising flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon cloves, 1/2 teaspoon allspice, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, then set aside.

Strain the fruit mix to separate the juice, reserving about 1/2 cup of juice.

In a bowl, mix 1 stick of soft butter and 1 cup of sugar until crumbly.

Add 3 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Mix in 1 tablespoon of molasses and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry mix in two parts, folding until incorporated.

Add 1/4 cup of sour cream and mix well.

Fold in the fruit mix in three parts, ensuring it is well combined.

Pour the batter into a greased and lined 9x5 baking pan, smoothing the top.

Decorate the top with half pecan halves and cherries before baking.

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake for 1 to 1.5 hours until a toothpick comes out clean.

Make a glaze with 1 tablespoon of butter and 1/4 cup of brown sugar, cooking until sticky, then glaze the cake after baking.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens