🧈 Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, cherries, dates, or pineapple)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
- ¼ cup brandy, rum, or orange juice (optional for soaking fruit)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
🍇 Optional Fruit Soak (for Extra Moisture & Flavor)
If time allows, soak the dried fruit in brandy, rum, or orange juice overnight. This softens the fruit and infuses it with flavor. If not, you can skip this step and still get amazing results — remember, this cake never fails!
How to Make the Never Fail Fruit Cake
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a loaf pan or round cake tin with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until fluffy and light. This is the foundation of a moist, tender cake.
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Mix It All Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Mix gently until smooth.
Fold in the dried fruit and nuts (and any leftover soaking liquid, if used).
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Rest
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing it. This helps lock in the moisture.
🍶 Optional Finishing Touch
For a traditional finish, brush the cooled cake with a bit of brandy or rum, then wrap it in parchment paper and store in an airtight container. It will become even richer and more flavorful over time — perfect for gifting or enjoying during the holidays.
🌟 Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix once the flour is added — that keeps the cake soft.
- Use good-quality dried fruits for the best flavor.
- Store properly: This cake keeps beautifully for weeks (and even improves in taste after a few days).
🍰 Why You’ll Love This Cake
The Never Fail Fruit Cake isn’t just a dessert — it’s a symbol of comfort, reliability, and festive joy. Every slice is filled with colorful fruit, crunchy nuts, and the warmth of home baking. It’s perfect for Christmas, weddings, family gatherings, or just when you want something special to share with a cup of tea.
One bite, and you’ll understand why generations of bakers swear by it. It’s the cake that truly never lets you down.
