Traditional fruitcake recipes for Christmas vary by region and family traditions, but they typically include a combination of dried fruits, nuts, spices, and often alcohol. Here are the common ingredients you would find in a classic Christmas fruitcake:
Dried Fruits: Raisins, currants, sultanas, candied cherries, candied citrus peel (orange and lemon), dried apricots, and sometimes candied ginger are commonly used.
Nuts: Chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans are popular choices.
Spices: Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and sometimes cloves or ginger are used to add warmth and flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour serves as the base for the cake.
Sugar: Both granulated sugar and sometimes brown sugar are used for sweetness.
Butter: Unsalted butter provides moisture and richness to the fruitcake.
Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add structure to the cake.
Molasses: This dark, sweet syrup is often used to enhance the rich flavor of the fruitcake.
Baking Powder: For leavening, as traditional fruitcakes are usually denser.
Alcohol: Brandy, rum, whiskey, or sherry are often used to soak the dried fruits and enhance the flavor of the cake. Some recipes also include alcohol in the cake batter itself.
Orange Juice or Zest: For added citrus flavor.
Vanilla Extract: To enhance the overall taste.
Optional: Some recipes may include honey, grated apples, or mashed bananas for added moisture.
The preparation typically involves soaking the dried fruits in alcohol overnight or for several days, and then mixing them with the other ingredients to create the batter. The batter is then baked slowly at a low temperature to ensure even cooking without burning the outside.
Traditional fruitcakes are known for their long shelf life, and many people bake them well in advance of Christmas to allow the flavors to mature over time. Some even "feed" the fruitcake periodically with additional alcohol to enhance the taste and texture.
Keep in mind that there are countless variations of fruitcake recipes, and you can customize the ingredients and proportions based on your preferences.