Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake

A Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake is a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. This rich, moist fruit cake is brimming with dried fruits, candied ginger, and nuts, all soaked in a luscious vanilla extract syrup. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family celebrations, or simply as a cozy dessert at home, this cake stands out for its deep flavors and festive appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of dried fruits, spices, and vanilla creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Moist Texture: Soaking the cake in vanilla extract syrup ensures it remains moist and flavorful for days.
• Versatile Occasions: Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match your favorite nuts and dried fruits to make the recipe your own.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these items ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pan: Ensures even baking and provides the perfect shape for your fruit cake.
• Electric mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy texture in the batter quickly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.

Ingredients

For this rich, moist fruit cake packed with flavor, gather the following ingredients:

For the Fruit Mixture

• 1 1/2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, apricots)
• 1 cup candied ginger, finely chopped

For the Batter

• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup orange juice

For Soaking Syrup

• 1/4 cup dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free) or apple juice (plus extra for soaking)
• Zest of one orange
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon sugar

How to Make Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and grease well.

Step 2: Soak the Fruits

In a bowl, combine the dried fruits and candied ginger. Pour orange juice and vanilla extract (alcohol-free) over them. Let soak for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt
4. Cinnamon
5. Nutmeg
6. Ground cloves

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time while mixing continuously. Stir in vanilla extract and orange zest.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture:
– Alternate adding dry ingredients with milk.
– Start and end with dry ingredients to ensure even mixing.

Step 6: Fold in Fruits & Nuts

Gently fold in the soaked fruits and nuts until just combined without overmixing.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.

Step 8: Prepare Soaking Syrup

While baking:
– Combine dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free), honey, and sugar in a saucepan.
– Heat until sugar dissolves; mixture should thicken slightly.

Step 9: Cool & Soak

Let the cake cool completely. Poke holes all over it using a skewer or toothpick. Pour syrup over it generously. Wrap it in parchment paper followed by plastic wrap. Let rest for at least 24 hours before serving to enhance flavors.

Enjoy your deliciously rich Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake!

How to Serve Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake

Serving your Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake can enhance its rich flavors and make for a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to present this festive treat.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense cake.

Serve with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy slices of your fruit cake alongside a comforting cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream complements the spices in the cake beautifully.

Accompany with Fresh Fruits

• Fresh slices of oranges or berries can brighten the plate and add a refreshing element.

Drizzle with Warm Vanilla Sauce

• A warm vanilla sauce enhances the richness and provides an extra layer of flavor.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkle extra chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added texture and crunch.

How to Perfect Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake

To achieve the best results with your Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all dried fruits and nuts are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Soak Overnight: For deeper flavor, soak the fruits in orange juice and vanilla extract (alcohol-free) overnight before baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different; check for doneness at 1 hour and adjust baking time as needed.
• Wrap Properly: After cooling, wrap your cake tightly to retain moisture and allow flavors to meld.
• Let It Age: Allowing the cake to rest for at least 24 hours before serving enhances its taste and texture.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference for a personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake

Pairing side dishes with your fruit cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of citrus fruits balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well, adding creaminess that complements the cake’s richness.
3. Spiced Chai Latte: The warmth of chai spices enhances the flavors in the fruit cake perfectly.
4. Apple Sauce: A dollop of homemade apple sauce adds moisture and a hint of tartness.
5. Roasted Nuts: Serve mixed roasted nuts for a crunchy contrast that enhances each bite.
6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice elevates the dessert experience significantly.
7. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with honey and fruits offers a creamy counterpart that balances sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a fruit cake can be tricky, especially when trying to achieve that perfect moistness and flavor. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the soak: Not soaking the dried fruits in vanilla extract (alcohol-free) or orange juice can lead to a dry cake. Always allow the fruits to soak for at least 30 minutes.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Combine your ingredients gently until just mixed to keep it light and fluffy.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat the oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Not testing for doneness: Relying solely on baking time may result in an undercooked or overcooked cake. Use a toothpick to check; it should come out clean when done.
• Insufficient resting time: Cutting into the cake too soon will prevent it from fully absorbing the syrup. Let it rest for at least 24 hours for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
• Use parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on medium power, checking to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions you might have about making this delicious cake.

What is a Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake?

A Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake is a rich dessert filled with dried fruits, nuts, and soaked in vanilla syrup for added flavor.

How long does it take to make this fruit cake?

The total time required is about 160 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Can I use other types of nuts?

Yes! You can substitute walnuts or pecans with almonds or hazelnuts based on your preference.

How can I customize my Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake?

Feel free to add your favorite dried fruits or spices like ginger or cardamom for unique flavors.

Is this cake suitable for holiday celebrations?

Absolutely! This moist fruit cake makes an excellent addition to any holiday gathering or festive occasion.

Final Thoughts

This Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you enjoy it plain or with added spices, this cake is sure to delight friends and family alike. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!