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Classic fruit loaf with dried fruits and nuts showing a golden crust and sliced crumb

Classic Fruit Loaf with Dried Fruits and Nuts

Classic Fruit Loaf is a tender, rich baked loaf filled with a comforting blend of sweet dried fruits and nuts. Its soft texture and warm spiced flavor make it a lovely choice for gatherings or a homemade treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fruit and Nut Mix-ins
  • 2 cups mixed dried fruits
  • 1 cup chopped nuts
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup brandy or rum
Dry Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Chop the dried fruits and nuts into small pieces and allow the butter to soften at room temperature.
  2. Preheat the oven to 325°F / 160°C.
  3. Beat the softened butter with the sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
  4. Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  5. Combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a separate bowl.
  6. Add the dry mixture to the butter mixture gradually, alternating with the orange juice, and stir until the batter is combined.
  7. Fold the dried fruits and chopped nuts into the batter until evenly spread throughout.
Baking
  1. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
  2. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and level the surface.
  3. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, testing near the center with a toothpick until it comes out clean.
  4. Let the loaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then move it to a rack to cool completely.

Notes

Soak the dried fruits in warm orange juice or brandy for 30 minutes before adding them to the batter for softer fruit pieces.