Traditional Holiday Fruit cake

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## **Instructions**

### **Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mixture**
1. In a bowl, combine **raisins, cranberries, candied cherries, candied pineapple, and nuts**.
2. Pour in the **orange juice or rum** and let the mixture **soak for at least 2 hours** (or overnight for deeper flavor).

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### **Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter**
1. Preheat your oven to **325°F (163°C)**.
2. Grease and line a **loaf pan or bundt pan** with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together **flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves**.
4. In a separate large bowl, cream together **butter and brown sugar** until light and fluffy.
5. Beat in **eggs, one at a time**, then add **vanilla extract and molasses**.
6. Gradually mix in the **dry ingredients**, alternating with **buttermilk**, until fully combined.

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### **Step 3: Combine and Bake**
1. Fold in the **soaked fruit mixture**, ensuring even distribution.
2. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
3. Bake for **60-75 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Let the cake **cool completely** before removing from the pan.

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### **Step 4: Optional Aging for Richer Flavor**
– Wrap the cooled cake in **parchment paper and foil**.
– Store in an airtight container, brushing with **rum or orange juice** every few days.
– Let it age for **1-2 weeks** for the best texture and taste.

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## **Serving & Storage Tips**

🍽 **Serve with** whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
🎁 **Gift it!** Wrap in festive paper for a homemade holiday gift.
🧊 **Store** at room temperature for a week or refrigerate for up to a month.

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## **Final Thoughts**

This **Traditional Holiday Fruitcake** is **moist, flavorful, and bursting with festive cheer**. Whether you enjoy it fresh or aged for a deeper taste, it’s a **holiday staple** that brings warmth to any gathering. **Try this recipe today and create a new tradition of delicious homemade fruitcake!** 🎄🍰✨