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

A Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of holiday baking. This moist cake, brimming with dried fruits, candied ginger, and nuts, offers a rich flavor profile that’s perfect for festive occasions or family gatherings. The unique feature of this recipe is the use of alcohol-free vanilla extract, allowing everyone to enjoy the classic taste without any alcohol content.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of dried fruits, nuts, and spices creates a deeply satisfying taste.
• Moist Texture: Soaking the cake in vanilla extract (alcohol-free) syrup ensures it stays tender and flavorful.
• Versatile Occasions: Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or as a comforting dessert throughout the year.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious cake.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the types of dried fruits and nuts to suit your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pan: Provides the right shape for even baking and presentation.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients properly without spills.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar.

Ingredients

To make this delectable Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dried Fruits and Nuts

• 1 1/2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, apricots)
• 1 cup candied ginger, finely chopped
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Cake Batter

• 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

Soaking Syrup

• 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

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.

Step 2: Soak the Dried Fruits

Combine the dried fruits and candied ginger in a bowl. Pour the orange juice and dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free) over them. Let soak for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time while mixing. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest until incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Start with dry ingredients and end with them to maintain structure.

Step 6: Fold in Fruits and Nuts

Gently fold in the soaked fruits and chopped nuts until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake light.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.

Step 8: Prepare Soaking Syrup

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

Step 9: Soak Cake

Once baked, allow your cake to cool slightly before poking holes all over its surface. Pour soaking syrup over it evenly. Wrap in parchment paper followed by plastic wrap. Let rest for at least 24 hours before serving for optimal flavor infusion.

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

Serving your Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake can enhance its flavors and make it a delightful centerpiece for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the cake’s moistness.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A warm chocolate sauce can provide a luxurious contrast to the fruity flavors of the cake.

Enjoy with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries offer a burst of tartness that balances the sweetness of the fruit cake.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over a slice, creating a delicious harmony of flavors and textures.

Accompany with Spiced Tea

• A cup of spiced tea or chai pairs well, enhancing the warm spices present in the cake.

Garnish with Orange Zest

• Sprinkling fresh orange zest on top adds brightness and an aromatic touch that enhances the overall presentation.

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

Perfecting your Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh dried fruits and spices for better flavor and texture.
• Soak Time Matters: Allow dried fruits to soak longer than 30 minutes if possible; overnight soaking enhances flavor absorption.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is accurately preheated; an oven thermometer can help achieve perfect baking conditions.
• Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold in ingredients to maintain a light texture; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Cool Before Serving: Let your cake cool completely before slicing; this helps retain moisture and makes cutting easier.
• Store Properly: Wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh for days.

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 enhance its enjoyment. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Cinnamon Apples: Sauté sliced apples with cinnamon and sugar for a warm, flavorful complement.
2. Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a layer of sweet cream cheese frosting on top for added richness.
3. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside crunchy nutty granola for added texture and flavor contrast.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits provides a bright, zesty balance.
5. Cheese Platter: Create a platter with various cheeses like Brie or aged Cheddar that pair well with sweet desserts.
6. Chai Tea Cookies: Offer spiced chai tea cookies as an additional treat that echoes the flavors in the fruit cake.
7. Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over slices for an exotic twist and added crunch.
8. Honey Yogurt Dip: Serve slices with honey-flavored yogurt as a creamy dip that enhances every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can ensure your Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake turns out perfectly. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the soaking step: Failing to soak the dried fruits and candied ginger can lead to a dry cake. Take time to let them absorb moisture for at least 30 minutes.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can significantly affect the cake’s texture and flavor. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined, then gently fold in the fruits and nuts to maintain a light texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy, and adjust as necessary.
• Not allowing enough resting time: Cutting into the cake too soon can ruin its flavor and texture. Let it rest for at least 24 hours after soaking it with syrup.
• Using old or stale ingredients: Freshness matters in baking. Check that your dried fruits, spices, and leavening agents are fresh for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it moist.
• Enjoy within 2 weeks for optimal freshness.

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

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
• Best used within 3 months for quality preservation.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C), then warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture while heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake.

Can I substitute other fruits in the cake?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits like figs or cranberries based on your preference.

How do I make my cake more moist?

Ensure you soak the fruits well before adding them to the batter, which enhances moisture throughout the cake.

Is there a substitute for unsalted butter?

You can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative if you prefer dairy-free options.

How long does this cake last once baked?

The cake stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or can be frozen for three months without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile. You can customize it with various nuts, spices, or dried fruits based on your taste preferences. We encourage you to try this delightful dessert during your next holiday celebration!

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

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Traditional vanilla extract (alcohol-free)-Soaked Fruit Cake, a perfect centerpiece for any festive occasion. This moist and richly flavored cake is packed with a medley of dried fruits, candied ginger, and crunchy nuts, making it a comforting dessert that everyone can enjoy. By utilizing alcohol-free vanilla extract, you can savor the classic taste without any alcohol content. Ideal for holiday celebrations or family gatherings, this easy-to-make cake also allows for personal twists with your favorite fruits and nuts.

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Ingredients

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• 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
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup orange juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and grease.
2. In a bowl, combine dried fruits and candied ginger; pour orange juice and vanilla extract over them and let soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time followed by the vanilla extract and orange zest.
5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture alternating with milk.
6. Fold in the soaked fruits and nuts gently until just combined.
7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Prepare soaking syrup by heating vanilla extract (alcohol-free), honey, and sugar until dissolved.
9. Once baked, poke holes in the cake's surface and pour syrup evenly over it; wrap in parchment paper then plastic wrap and let rest for at least 24 hours before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg