Easy Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe: A Simple Delight for Your Festive Gatherings

This Christmas fruit cake is perfect for those who want a delicious treat without the wait. You can enjoy it just a day after baking. The recipe comes from a cherished family memory, passed down to keep the spirit of a loved one alive. It's a simple yet delightful cake that captures the essence of the holiday season.

• 1½ cups (360 g) raisins
• ¼ cup (60 ml) orange juice
• 1 cup (240 g) softened butter
• 1 packet (250 g) cream cheese
• 1½ cups (360 g) brown sugar
• 4 eggs
• 4 teaspoons grated orange zest
• 1 cup (140 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• Saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Separate mixing bowl
• 9-inch tube pan or bundt pan
• Cake tester or skewer
• Cooling rack

Procedure

1. In a saucepan on low heat, warm the raisins and orange juice until the liquid is absorbed. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese with sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in orange zest.
3. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Stir this into the batter, followed by the raisin mixture.
4. Spoon the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch tube pan or bundt pan.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (160°C) for about 80 minutes. Check at 60 minutes with a cake tester or skewer.
6. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then turn onto a rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Values