Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup molasses or honey
- ½ cup orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, cherries, etc.)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- Zest of 1 orange
- ¼ cup rum or brandy (optional, for soaking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit Mix: Soak the dried fruits in orange juice (or rum/brandy) for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a cake pan with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs & Flavoring: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla, molasses, and orange zest.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Combine: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the soaked fruits and nuts.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60–75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Soak: Let the cake cool completely. If using alcohol, brush the cake with additional rum or brandy for extra moisture and flavor.
- Decorate & Serve: Decorate with powdered sugar, icing, or festive toppings. Enjoy!
Would you like a frosting or glaze option? 😊