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

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Indulge in the delightful experience of a Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake, perfect for any occasion. This moist and flavorful cake features a medley of dried fruits, candied ginger, and crunchy nuts, all infused with the warm essence of vanilla. The soaking process enhances its rich flavor profile while ensuring a tender texture that lasts for days.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, apricots)
  • 1 cup candied ginger, finely chopped
  • 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
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and grease.
  2. In a bowl, soak dried fruits and candied ginger in orange juice and vanilla extract for at least 30 minutes.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves.
  4. Beat softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and mix well. Stir in vanilla extract and orange zest.
  5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture alternating with milk.
  6. Gently fold in the soaked fruits and nuts until just combined.
  7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours until clean when tested with a toothpick.
  8. While baking, prepare the soaking syrup by heating dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free), honey, and sugar until dissolved.
  9. Allow cake to cool completely before poking holes in it and pouring the syrup over it generously. Wrap tightly and let rest for at least 24 hours before serving.
  • Author: Emma Moyer
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 120 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Traditional

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
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