## Traditional Fruitcake with Candied Cherries: A Classic Holiday Treat!
### Introduction
The holiday season calls for some indulgence, and unpacking a rich, homemade Traditional Fruitcake with Candied Cherries is one of the joys of the season. Full of nuts, dried fruit, spices, and candied cherries, this cake is a sweet and spicy treat that everyone will enjoy. Generation after generation, this recipe has created the most perfect timeless fruitcake.
### Why Make This Recipe
Unjustly maligned for being dry or overly sweet, a well-made fruitcake has the perfect balance of taste and texture. The rum (or orange juice) soaked fruit gives this cake a unique and rich flavor profile. Even those who claim not to like fruitcakes will find themselves drawn towards this tempting treat.
### How to Make Traditional Fruitcake with Candied Cherries
Making this fruitcake may seem intricate but is surprisingly straightforward and simple to prepare.
#### Ingredients
– Candied cherries
– Mixed dried fruit
– Chopped nuts
– Dark rum or orange juice
– All-purpose flour
– Baking powder
– Salt
– Cinnamon
– Nutmeg
– Unsalted butter
– Brown sugar
– Large eggs
– Vanilla extract
#### Directions
1. Preheat oven and prepare the loaf pan.
2. Soak the cherries, dried fruit, and nuts in rum or orange juice.
3. Mix together the dry ingredients.
4. Cream butter and sugar then add eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Combine both wet and dry mixes, then add soaked fruit mixture.
6. Pour batter in the pan and bake.
7. Let it cool and serve!
### How to Serve Traditional Fruitcake with Candied Cherries
This delightfully rich cake is best served in thin slices due to its dense texture. Enjoy it with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of milk. Perfect for any kind of social gathering, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
### How to Store Traditional Fruitcake with Candied Cherries
Properly stored, fruitcake can last for a few weeks. Wrap your cooled fruitcake tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent it from drying out. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
### Tips to Make Traditional Fruitcake with Candied Cherries
Follow the recipe closely for best results. Ensure all your ingredients are fresh for a robust flavor profile. And remember, patience is key – let the fruit soak up the rum or orange juice for a flavor-packed fruitcake.
### Variations
This fruitcake is adaptable according to taste preferences. You can substitute candied cherries with your choice of dried or candied fruit such as apricots, figs, or dates.
### FAQs
1. **Can I make this fruitcake without alcohol?** Yes, you can substitute the rum with orange juice or apple juice for an alcohol-free version.
2. **What other nuts can I add to this recipe?** Walnuts and pecans work well, but you can also experiment with almonds or pistachios.
3. **How do I know if my cake is cooked properly?** Insert a toothpick into the middle of the cake, if it comes out clean, your fruitcake is cooked.
Embrace the joy of baking this holiday season with this traditional fruitcake with candied cherries. Fill your home with the wonderful aroma of this festive treat and share the love with family and friends.