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

A rich and flavorful Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake is perfect for any festive occasion. This moist fruit cake, brimming with dried fruits, candied ginger, and nuts, is beautifully enhanced by a luxurious soak in alcohol-free vanilla syrup. It’s a delightful centerpiece for holiday gatherings or a special treat to share with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of dried fruits and spices creates a depth of flavor that makes this cake irresistible.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for Christmas, birthdays, or any celebration where you want to impress your guests.
• Moist Texture: Soaking the cake in vanilla syrup ensures it stays moist and flavorful long after baking.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, making this cake is a breeze.
• Make Ahead Option: This cake improves with time, making it ideal for preparing ahead of your event.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful fruit cake, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pan: Provides the perfect shape for even baking and easy serving.
• Parchment paper: Ensures the cake releases easily from the pan without sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently.
• Rubber spatula: Helps fold ingredients together gently without overmixing.

Ingredients

A rich, moist fruit cake packed with dried fruits, candied ginger, and nuts, then soaked in vanilla extract (alcohol-free) syrup for a traditional holiday treat.

For the Cake:

• 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
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup orange juice

For Soaking:

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

For Vanilla Syrup:

• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free) or apple juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 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 it well to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Soak the Fruits

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

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves until well combined.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time while mixing thoroughly. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the butter mixture. Alternate adding in milk as you mix to maintain consistency. Start and end with dry ingredients for best results.

Step 6: Fold in Fruits and Nuts

Gently fold in the soaked fruits along with walnuts or pecans until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 1 ½ to 2 hours or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cover it loosely with foil if it begins browning too quickly.

Step 8: Make Vanilla Syrup

While your cake bakes, combine dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free), honey, and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat this mixture on low until sugar dissolves and thickens slightly.

Step 9: Soak the Cake

Once baked and cooled slightly, poke holes all over the top of your fruit cake using a skewer. Pour the warm syrup evenly over it so that it absorbs all that delicious flavor. Wrap in parchment paper followed by plastic wrap. Allow it to rest for at least 24 hours before serving for optimal taste enhancement.

Enjoy every slice of your homemade 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 elevate the experience, making it perfect for any gathering or holiday celebration. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this rich dessert.

Enjoy with a Hot Beverage

• Tea or Coffee: Pairing your cake with a warm cup of tea or coffee enhances the flavors and creates a comforting experience.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy hot chocolate complements the sweetness of the fruit cake beautifully.

Add Fresh Fruits

• Citrus Slices: Fresh orange or lemon slices add a zesty contrast to the cake’s richness.
• Berries: Fresh strawberries or raspberries can add a pop of color and freshness to each slice.

Serve with Creamy Toppings

• Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds a luscious texture that balances the dense cake.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy cream cheese frosting can provide an excellent flavor contrast.

Plate Decoratively

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top creates an elegant presentation.
• Garnish with Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves can brighten up your plate and add a pop of color.

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

To ensure your Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh dried fruits and high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Soak Fruits Properly: Letting your fruits soak in orange juice and vanilla beforehand will enhance their flavor and moisture content.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Gently folding in the ingredients helps maintain a tender crumb structure in the cake.
• Check for Doneness Early: Start checking your cake at 1 hour and 15 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Completely Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool completely ensures it retains its moisture when you pour over the syrup.
• Wrap for Flavor Development: Wrapping your cooled cake allows flavors to meld together, enhancing taste after resting for 24 hours.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake can create an incredible dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream balances the dense texture of the fruit cake nicely.
2. Custard Sauce: A warm custard sauce drizzled over each slice adds richness and moisture.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness and contrasts well with the sweet, dense cake.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese pairs wonderfully with sweets, adding savory notes.
5. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce offers a decadent touch that appeals to chocolate lovers.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruits complements the fruit cake while adding health benefits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking a fruit cake, it’s easy to make errors that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using stale ingredients: Ensure all your dried fruits, nuts, and spices are fresh for the best flavor.
• Not soaking the fruits long enough: Allow at least 30 minutes for the fruits to absorb the orange juice and vanilla extract (alcohol-free). This step enhances moisture and flavor.
• Overmixing batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Letting the cake cool before pouring over the syrup is essential. This allows better absorption and flavor enhancement.
• Baking at an incorrect temperature: Always preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) as specified. Baking at a higher or lower temperature can affect cooking time and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy access.

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

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Slice before freezing for quick thawing.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat for intervals of 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake is a moist dessert made with dried fruits, nuts, and soaked in a sweet vanilla syrup. It’s perfect for holidays or special occasions.

How long does it take to prepare this cake?

The total time required is about 160 minutes, including preparation and cooking times.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite dried fruits like figs or cranberries for a different taste profile.

How do I ensure my fruit cake stays moist?

Make sure to soak the fruits adequately before mixing them into your batter. Also, pouring the syrup over the cooled cake helps maintain moisture.

Can I make this fruit cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s often better when made a day or two in advance, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake offers rich flavors and delightful moisture, making it an ideal choice for any festive occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize with different dried fruits or nuts according to your preference. Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try!