Fruit loaf cake is a classic treat that brings joy and flavor to any occasion. With its moist texture and delightful mix of fruits and spices, it's a dessert that never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging on a cozy afternoon, this irresistible fruit loaf cake recipe is a must-try. Let's dive into the details of creating this scrumptious cake that will have everyone asking for seconds! 🍰
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Ingredients You’ll Need 🥚🍇
For an amazing fruit loaf cake, gather these essential ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, apricots, and cherries)
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter (or a substitute for a healthier option)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: nuts or seeds for added crunch
Important Notes
"Feel free to customize the dried fruits according to your taste preferences!"
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Step-by-Step Instructions 📜
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious fruit loaf cake:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🔥
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Combine Dried Fruits and Liquids 🍊
In a mixing bowl, combine the dried fruits, applesauce, and orange juice. Let this mixture sit for about 15 minutes. This allows the fruits to soak up the liquids, enhancing their flavor.
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Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients 🥄
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
Step 4: Blend Wet Ingredients 🧈
In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the soaked fruit mixture to this bowl and stir until mixed well.
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Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients 🔄
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this could result in a dense loaf.
Step 6: Bake the Cake ⏲️
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Step 7: Cool and Serve 🎉
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cake can be served warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Your irresistible fruit loaf cake can be served on its own, or you can add a delightful twist with these serving suggestions:
- Spread a little butter on each slice. 🧈
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. 🍯
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert. 🍦
- Garnish with fresh fruits like slices of orange or berries for a colorful touch. 🍓
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Nutritional Information 📊
Here's a quick glance at the nutritional values per slice (based on 12 slices):
<table> <tr> <th>Nutrient</th> <th>Amount</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Calories</td> <td>180 kcal</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Protein</td> <td>3g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Fat</td> <td>7g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Carbohydrates</td> <td>28g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sugars</td> <td>12g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Fiber</td> <td>2g</td> </tr> </table>
Important Notes
"Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes."
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Tips for Perfecting Your Fruit Loaf Cake 🌟
- Use high-quality dried fruits for the best flavor.
- Experiment with spices. Cardamom or ginger can add a unique twist.
- Let the cake rest overnight for even more intense flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
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Conclusion 🎈
The irresistible fruit loaf cake is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of dried fruits with warm spices, creating a comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. With its easy-to-follow recipe, you can impress family and friends and bring a touch of homemade goodness to your gatherings. Whether you slice it for a festive event or enjoy it with your morning coffee, this fruit loaf cake is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy baking and savoring every bite!