Are you looking for a delicious and impressive dessert to wow your guests this holiday season? Look no further than this Betty Crocker-inspired white fruitcake recipe! This recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic, resulting in a moist, flavorful, and beautifully textured cake perfect for sharing. It's surprisingly easy to make, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks seeking a time-tested favorite. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade holiday baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup mixed candied fruit (cherries, pineapple, orange peel)
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan. This ensures your fruitcake releases easily and prevents sticking.
Cream Together: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender crumb. Use an electric mixer for best results.
Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the almond and vanilla extracts.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
Alternate Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Fold in Fruit and Nuts: Gently fold in the candied fruit, raisins, and nuts (if using). Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake tough.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing and a smooth batter.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Glaze (Optional): A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and a little milk or juice enhances the cake's flavor and presentation.
Variations:
- Spiced Fruitcake: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Citrus Burst: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon for a bright citrusy note.
- Dark Fruitcake: Substitute dark candied fruits like figs and apricots for a richer flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: Approximately 18g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45g
- Protein: Approximately 4g
This recipe makes a delightful and festive treat perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious aroma and the joy of sharing this homemade classic with loved ones. Happy baking!