When it comes to nostalgic holiday baking, nothing compares to the Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe. This iconic cake has been passed down through generations, loved for its rich texture, warm spices, and generous mix of fruits and nuts. Unlike modern, overly sweet versions, this traditional fruit cake is perfectly balanced, deeply flavorful, and surprisingly moist.
Why the Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe Is So Popular
The Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe has stood the test of time because it focuses on simple ingredients, dependable results, and classic flavors. Betty Crocker recipes are known for reliability, and this fruit cake is no exception.
What makes it special is the combination of candied fruits, raisins, nuts, molasses, and warm spices baked into a dense yet tender crumb. It’s not just a dessert—it’s a celebration of tradition.
Ingredients for Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe
Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. Using quality fruits and fresh spices makes a noticeable difference.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup molasses
- ¾ cup orange juice or apple juice
Fruits and Nuts
- 1 cup chopped candied cherries
- 1 cup chopped candied pineapple
- 1 cup raisins
- ½ cup chopped dates
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Step-by-Step Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe
This classic recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner bakers.
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. Fruit cake bakes slowly, so low heat is essential.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a tender texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Molasses
Beat in the eggs one at a time. Slowly mix in the molasses until fully combined. The molasses gives the cake its deep color and rich flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients alternately with the juice, mixing gently. Do not overmix—this keeps the cake from becoming tough.
Step 6: Fold in Fruits and Nuts
Lightly toss the fruits and nuts with a tablespoon of flour, then fold them into the batter. This helps distribute them evenly.
Step 7: Bake Slowly
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 2 to 2½ hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Fruit Cake
- Low and slow baking prevents burning and ensures even cooking
- Use fresh spices for the best aroma and taste
- Do not skip molasses—it’s essential to the classic flavor
- Flour the fruits to keep them from sinking
These small details make the Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe truly authentic.
How to Make the Cake Extra Moist and Flavorful
One of the secrets to an unforgettable fruit cake is aging it properly.
Optional Aging Method
- Wrap the cooled cake tightly in cheesecloth
- Lightly brush with orange juice or apple juice
- Wrap in foil and store in a cool place
- Re-brush weekly for 2–3 weeks
This step deepens the flavor and improves texture without alcohol.
Variations of Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe
You can easily customize this recipe while keeping its classic charm.
Alcohol-Free Version
The original recipe works perfectly without alcohol. Simply use juice for moisture and aging.
Nut-Free Option
Omit nuts and add extra raisins or dates instead.
Spiced Holiday Version
Add:
- ½ teaspoon allspice
- ½ teaspoon ginger
This gives a warmer, festive flavor.
How to Store Old Fashioned Fruit Cake
Proper storage keeps your cake fresh for weeks.
Room Temperature
Wrap tightly and store in a cool place for up to 1 week.
Refrigerator
Keeps well for 3–4 weeks when wrapped properly.
Freezer
Wrap in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions for Fruit Cake
The Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe pairs beautifully with:
- Hot tea or coffee
- Vanilla custard
- Whipped cream
- Light citrus glaze
Serve thin slices—this cake is rich and satisfying.
Why This Recipe Beats Store-Bought Fruit Cake
Homemade fruit cake has:
- Better texture
- Balanced sweetness
- Natural flavors
- No preservatives
Once you try this recipe, store-bought versions simply won’t compare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fruit cake supposed to be dense?
Yes. A traditional fruit cake is dense but moist, not dry or crumbly.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, it tastes better after resting for a few days or weeks.
Can beginners make this recipe?
Yes. The Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe is straightforward and forgiving.
Final Thoughts on Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe
The Betty Crocker Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of baking history. Rich, comforting, and deeply flavorful, this cake brings generations together around the table.
Whether you bake it for the holidays or simply to enjoy a classic treat, this recipe delivers dependable results every time. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it has remained a favorite for decades.
