Wine-Soaked Festive Fruitcake: A Decadent Holiday Delight

Fruitcake Recipe

Preparation Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 2 5lb. Cakes
Calories: 11772.6 per serving

Ingredients:

• 1 part citron
• 1 part brazil nuts
• 1/4 part pecans
• 12 parts raisins
• 2 parts dates
• 2 parts butter
• 1/2 part sugar
• 2 eggs
• 3 1/2 eggs (for soaking)
• 10 parts wine
• 1 part all-purpose flour
• 4 parts cinnamon
• 1 1/2 parts allspice
• 1 1/2 parts nutmeg
• 1 part clove
• 1 1/2 parts baking powder
• 1 1/4 parts salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare Fruits and Nuts:

   • Cut up the citron, brazil nuts, pecans, raisins, and dates into small pieces.

2. Soak Fruits and Nuts:

   • You have two options:
     • Either soak them overnight in 1 cup of wine.
     • Or, flour the nuts and leave them overnight.

3. Prepare Batter:

   • Cream the butter and sugar together until smooth.
   • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Gradually add the flour, mixing until well combined.

4. Mix Batter with Fruits and Nuts:

   • Combine the prepared fruits and nuts with the batter, mixing until evenly distributed.

5. Prepare Pan:

   • Line the bottom of the baking pans with brown paper sacks or wax paper.
   • Grease the paper with oil to prevent sticking.

6. Baking:

   • Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pans and spread evenly.
   • Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the cakes are light brown.
   • Note: The baking time may vary. Some cakes may take up to 4 hours to bake fully.
   • Check the cakes after 1 1/2 hours to see if they are light brown. They should continue baking until they become darker.

7. Cooling and Soaking:

   • Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans on a wire rack.
   • Use a knife to loosen the sides of the cakes after they have cooled.
   • Soak cheesecloth with wine and place it over the cakes.
   • Wrap the cakes securely and store them in a cool place.

8. Soaking (Optional):

   • For added moisture and flavor, soak the cakes 3 or 4 times with additional wine over the course of a few days.

This decadent fruitcake recipe is perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. Enjoy the rich flavors and moist texture of this classic dessert!