Fruit Cake Recipe None Such Mincemeat Made Easy

Fruitcake is a timeless holiday treat that delights with its rich flavors and moist texture. However, traditional recipes often call for mincemeat, which not everyone has on hand or prefers.

That’s why this fruit cake recipe without any such mincemeat is perfect for those looking to enjoy a festive cake with the same indulgence but a fresher, simpler twist. Packed with a medley of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, this fruitcake is moist, flavorful, and easy to make.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or simply craving a classic dessert, this recipe will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things straightforward and accessible.

Gone are the days of hunting for specialty mincemeat jars — with this recipe, you control every ingredient, ensuring freshness and quality. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite dried fruits or nuts.

Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this delicious, no-mincemeat fruit cake recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fruitcake is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it skips the mincemeat but doesn’t compromise on the traditional flavor profile you expect from a classic fruitcake.

The combination of dried fruits soaked in orange juice and warm spices creates a moist, fragrant cake that’s bursting with flavor.

Second, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with everyday ingredients, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. No complicated mincemeat prep or hard-to-find items here!

Finally, it’s customizable. You can swap fruits, nuts, or even add a splash of your favorite spirit for an adult twist.

The result is a beautifully textured, delightfully spiced cake that pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, dried apricots)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Optional: 2 tbsp brandy or rum for soaking

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Loaf pan (8×4 inch or similar)
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Fine grater (for zesting lemon)
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Soak the dried fruits: In a medium bowl, combine the dried fruits and orange juice. If using, add the brandy or rum. Stir gently, cover, and let soak for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This plumps up the fruits and infuses them with flavor.
2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line your loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Make sure all spices are evenly distributed.
4. Cream the butter and eggs: In another bowl, beat the softened butter with the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the lemon zest for a fresh citrus note.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
6. Add soaked fruits and nuts: Drain the fruits if there’s excess liquid (reserve it for later use if desired). Fold the plumped fruits and chopped nuts into the batter carefully to distribute evenly without overmixing.
7. Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
8. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking.
9. Cool and rest: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. For best results, wrap the cooled cake in parchment and store in an airtight container for 2-3 days to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

“Soaking the fruits overnight is a game-changer—don’t skip it!”

Try these ideas to customize your fruitcake:

• Switch up dried fruits: add dried cherries, cranberries, or figs for different textures and flavors.
• For a nut-free version, replace nuts with sunflower seeds or omit altogether.
• Add a teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice for extra warmth.
• Use apple juice or pineapple juice instead of orange juice for a different fruity note.
• For a vegan alternative, substitute eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water) and use vegan butter.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This fruitcake is versatile and pairs beautifully with many accompaniments. Serve it slightly warmed with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

For a cozy afternoon treat, enjoy a slice with a cup of black tea or coffee. It also works wonderfully as part of a holiday brunch spread alongside other baked goods.

If you want to get creative, try topping slices with cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of honey and chopped nuts for extra texture and sweetness.

Conclusion

Making a fruitcake without mincemeat doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or tradition. This recipe offers a delightful alternative that’s both simple and delicious, relying on wholesome dried fruits, nuts, and fragrant spices to deliver the classic taste we all love.

Its moist texture and well-balanced sweetness make it perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion.

By soaking the fruits and carefully blending the spices, you create a cake that’s bursting with depth and complexity. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility means you can tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.

If you enjoyed this fruitcake, why not explore more delicious recipes like Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy, Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, or Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping for more tasty inspiration.

Happy baking and enjoy every bite of this delightful fruitcake!

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