Nothing says Christmas like a beautifully baked fruitcake—and this alcohol-free version is guaranteed to become your new holiday favorite. Packed with tender dried apricots, juicy raisins, vibrant candied cherries, mixed peel, and crunchy walnuts, this cake delivers rich flavor in every slice. Moist, fragrant, and incredibly festive, it’s a wonderful choice for holiday gatherings, edible gift-giving, or enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee on a cozy winter evening.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for All Ages: A fruitcake everyone can enjoy—no alcohol required.
- Loaded With Festive Flavor: A colorful mix of dried fruits and crunchy nuts creates the perfect holiday texture.
- Beginner-Friendly: Straightforward steps and dependable results every time.
- Ideal for Gifting: Wrap in parchment and ribbon for thoughtful, homemade Christmas presents.
Ingredients
Fruit Mixture
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups raisins
- 2 cups dried apricots, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup white sugar
Cake Batter
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Add-Ins
- 2 cups glace cherries, chopped (1 cup red + 1 cup green)
- 1 cup mixed peel
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Saucepan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Two 9×5-inch loaf pans
- Parchment paper
- Non-stick spray
- Toothpick
- Wire cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit Mixture
- In a saucepan, combine the water, 1/4 cup sugar, raisins, and chopped dried apricots.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.
2. Preheat and Prepare the Pans
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Spray the loaf pans with non-stick spray and line with parchment paper.
3. Make the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, remaining sugar, and vanilla.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Fold in the cooled fruit mixture.
- Add the flour and baking powder, mixing until smooth and fully combined.
4. Add the Fruit and Nuts
Fold in the glace cherries, mixed peel, and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
5. Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter between the two loaf pans.
- Tap the pans lightly on the counter to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 55 minutes, then test with a toothpick.
- If needed, bake for an additional 5 minutes until the toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Delicious with tea, coffee, or mulled wine.
- Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for a festive touch.
- Wrap in parchment and tie with ribbon for a charming edible holiday gift.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Wrap tightly and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Wrap securely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavor improves as it sits—great for preparing ahead.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit walnuts or replace with sunflower seeds.
- Boost the Spice: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or mixed spice for extra warmth.
- Mini Gift Loaves: Bake in mini loaf pans for adorable individual gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different dried fruits?
Definitely! Dried cranberries, figs, dates, or prunes all work well.
Can I turn this into a boozy fruitcake?
Yes—brush the finished cake with rum, brandy, or orange liqueur for added richness.
How do I keep the fruitcake moist?
Avoid overbaking and store it tightly wrapped to lock in moisture.
Conclusion
This Christmas Apricot & Walnut Fruitcake brings together everything we love about a holiday dessert—moist texture, rich fruit flavor, and beautiful festive colors. Easy to bake and perfect for sharing, this classic yet approachable fruitcake is sure to become a cherished part of your Christmas traditions. Enjoy it fresh from the oven, give it as a heartfelt gift, or savor it slice by slice with your favorite warm drink.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Makes: 2 Loaves
✨ Happy Baking and Merry Christmas! 🎄
