Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe
Looking for a festive, flavorful dessert that is perfect for the holidays or any special occasion? This Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe is exactly what you need! Claxton Fruit Cake is renowned for its rich combination of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, creating a deliciously dense and moist cake that stands out during the holiday season. This recipe brings the iconic Claxton Fruit Cake into your kitchen, offering a traditional treat with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration or simply craving a slice of something classic, this fruit cake will definitely become a family favorite.
What Makes Claxton Fruit Cake Special?
This Claxton Fruit Cake is special for its time-honored ingredients and preparation. Known for its complex flavor profile, the cake contains a blend of dried fruits like raisins, currants, and cherries, along with roasted nuts, all infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The addition of dark rum or brandy enhances the cake’s depth, making it both aromatic and rich. The best part? It can be made in advance and improves in flavor as it rests, making it a convenient dessert for planning ahead during busy holiday seasons.
Why You’ll Love This Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe
If you’ve been searching for the perfect fruit cake, this Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe is a must-try. The blend of sweet dried fruits and crunchy nuts in a spiced, boozy batter creates a moist, flavorful dessert that will make your holiday celebrations extra special.
- A Holiday Tradition: This recipe brings the classic Claxton fruit cake flavor right into your home.
- Easy-to-Make: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, anyone can make this rich cake.
- Perfect for Gifting: Its festive flavors make it an ideal holiday gift for friends and family.
Another reason this cake stands out is its versatility. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven, aged for a week, or frozen and thawed later, the taste only improves with time. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up leftover dried fruits and nuts you may already have in your pantry.
Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan or loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits raisins, currants, chopped dates, cherries
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup dark rum or brandy optional
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup orange juice or water
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round or loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Fruits and Nuts
- In a separate bowl, combine the dried fruits and nuts. If your fruits are large (like dates or cherries), chop them into smaller pieces to ensure even distribution in the batter. Toss them in a little bit of flour (about 1 tablespoon) to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
Step 4: Beat the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and orange juice (or water), followed by the rum or brandy, if using.
Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. Then, fold in the fruit and nut mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Pour into the Pan
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake
- Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking.
Step 8: Cool
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Rest the Cake
- Once the cake has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and allow it to rest for at least 24 hours before serving. The flavors will deepen and improve as it sits.
Notes
- Fruit Variations: Feel free to adjust the types of dried fruits based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Common choices include raisins, currants, chopped dried apricots, or even dried pineapple.
- Alcohol-Free Version: If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply swap the dark rum or brandy for a bit of orange juice or water. The cake will still be delicious, but without the boozy depth.
- Resting Time: For the best flavor, allow the cake to rest for at least 24 hours after baking. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, making the cake even more delicious as it sits.
- Storage: Store your fruit cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. This cake also freezes well, so you can make it in advance and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Moisture Boost: For an extra moist fruit cake, consider brushing the cooled cake with a bit of rum or brandy every few days during its resting period. This will keep the cake moist and enhance its rich flavor over time.
- Baking Time: Make sure to check the cake after 45 minutes. If the top starts to brown too much, loosely cover the cake with foil and continue baking until done. Each oven is different, so adjusting the time accordingly is key to getting that perfect texture.
f you enjoyed making this Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe, be sure to check out our Chocolate Pie Golden Corral Recipe for another delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Both treats offer rich, indulgent flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests!
Ingredient Substitutions & Delicious Variations
- Mixed Dried Fruits: These provide natural sweetness, chewiness, and that signature fruit cake texture. Cherries and dates add moisture, while raisins and currants give that classic flavor.
- Nuts: Pecans or walnuts bring a toasty crunch that balances the soft texture of the fruits.
- Dark Rum or Brandy: These aren’t just for flavor – they act as natural preservatives and deepen the cake’s aroma and richness.
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices warm the flavor profile and are key to the holiday essence of the cake.
- Orange Juice: Adds brightness and acidity to cut through the sweetness and round out the flavors.
Understanding your ingredients not only helps you bake better but also allows you to tweak the recipe confidently based on availability or personal taste.
Tips for Making Perfect Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe
- Resting time: Give the cake at least 24 hours to rest before cutting into it, as the flavors will intensify.
- Customize fruits: Feel free to adjust the dried fruits to your taste. Some people like to add dried apricots or pineapple for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a moist cake: You can brush the cake with a bit more rum or brandy every couple of days as it rests to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
- Baking time: Since oven temperatures vary, check the cake after 45 minutes to make sure it doesn’t overbake.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
While Claxton Fruit Cake is delicious on its own, you can elevate the experience by pairing it with complementary flavors:
- Cheese Pairing: Serve a slice with a mild, creamy cheese like brie or mascarpone for a luxurious treat.
- Drinks: Pair with black coffee, chai tea, or a glass of dessert wine like port or sherry.
- Warm It Up: Lightly toast a slice and top with butter or clotted cream for a cozy dessert.
Serving Tips For Claxton Fruit Cake
Claxton Fruit Cake is rich, dense, and full of flavor, which makes it incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether you’re presenting it at a holiday gathering or enjoying a quiet slice with your evening tea, here are some creative ways to elevate your serving experience:
- Classic & Simple: Serve the cake at room temperature on its own or with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. This highlights the natural sweetness of the fruits and spices.
- With Ice Cream: Warm up a slice slightly and serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or butter pecan. The cold creaminess balances the rich, spiced cake perfectly.
- Holiday Pairings: During festive occasions, serve it alongside a cup of hot mulled wine, eggnog, or spiced apple cider. The warm beverages enhance the cozy flavors of the cake.
- Cheese Board Companion: Thinly sliced Claxton Fruit Cake makes an unexpected but delicious addition to a holiday cheese board. Pair with soft cheeses like brie or camembert, or even a sharp aged cheddar for contrast.
- Drizzle for Elegance: For a more elegant presentation, drizzle each slice with a bit of caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or a citrus glaze. It adds visual appeal and another layer of flavor.
- Gifting Idea: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and tie with festive ribbon. These make beautiful homemade gifts or stocking stuffers that are both thoughtful and delicious.
- Toasted & Buttered: Toast a slice lightly and spread with a pat of salted butter for a cozy afternoon snack it brings out the nutty notes in the cake and enhances its warmth.
- Layered Dessert: Crumble leftover fruit cake and use it as a base for parfaits or trifles. Layer it with whipped cream, pudding, or custard for a quick and impressive dessert.
Nutrition & Calories Facts Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 25g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 100mg |
Storage Tips for Longer Shelf Life
For fruit cakes, proper storage is key to maintaining their texture and flavor over time:
- Short-Term: Wrap in plastic and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Mid-Term: For up to 3 weeks, refrigerate and rewrap after each use to prevent drying out.
- Long-Term: For freezing, wrap tightly in both plastic and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Label with the date and consume within 3 months for best flavor.
Tip: To maintain moisture during storage, place a slice of apple or a sugar cube inside the storage container (just make sure to change it regularly to avoid spoilage).
Conclusion!
This Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe is a perfect blend of festive flavors and tradition. Easy to make, rich in taste, and versatile enough for any occasion, it will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering, family celebration, or just because you crave a delicious fruit cake, this recipe will not disappoint!
FAQs
Here the most asking questions about Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe…
1. Can I make Claxton Fruit Cake without alcohol?
Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute the dark rum or brandy with orange juice or water for a non-alcoholic version.
2. How long can I store Claxton Fruit Cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
3. Can I freeze this fruit cake?
Yes! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
4. Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
For the best results, it’s recommended to use dried fruit as fresh fruit will not provide the same texture or moisture.
5. How can I make the cake more flavorful?
You can brush the cake with more rum or brandy as it rests, or even add a splash of citrus zest for extra freshness and flavor!
