Description
A dense, buttery holiday loaf bursting with golden raisins and bright glace cherries. This simple, alcohol-free recipe relies on orange juice for moisture and a tender crumb, making it a perfect festive treat for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 cups golden raisins
- 1 1/2 cups glace cherries, halved
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and white sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the orange juice until the mixture is smooth.
- Sift the all-purpose flour and baking powder together in a separate bowl. Toss the golden raisins and cherries in 1/3 cup of this flour mixture until well-coated.
- Gently stir the remaining flour mixture into the wet ingredients until no white streaks remain. Fold in the floured fruit using a spatula.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan before wrapping.
Notes
To ensure the fruit stays evenly distributed, do not skip the step of tossing the raisins and cherries in flour. This cake stores exceptionally well and the texture actually improves if you wrap it tightly and let it sit for 24 to 48 hours before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 2 hours 15 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American