Golden Glazed Holiday Fruitcake Loaf: Moist, Spiced, and Gloriously Glazed

A rich, buttery loaf packed with dried fruit, warm spices, and finished with a glossy apricot glaze—this fruitcake is anything but dry

Introduction: The Fruitcake That Wins Hearts

Forget everything you thought you knew about fruitcake. This Golden Glazed Holiday Fruitcake Loaf is tender, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. It’s filled with plump dried fruits, warmly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and finished with a golden apricot glaze that adds shine and citrusy brightness.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch, gifting homemade treats, or simply craving something cozy and nostalgic, this loaf delivers. It’s easy to make, stores beautifully, and slices like a dream.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s explore what makes this loaf so rich and irresistible:

Cake Batter:

• Unsalted butter (200 g, softened)
  Adds richness and a tender crumb.
• Brown sugar (180 g)
  Sweetens and adds molasses depth.
• Eggs (3 large)
  Bind the batter and add structure.
• Orange zest (from 1 orange)
  Adds citrus brightness and aroma.
• All-purpose flour (250 g)
  Provides structure and balance.
• Baking powder (1 tsp)
  Gives a gentle lift.
• Ground cinnamon (½ tsp) & nutmeg (¼ tsp)
  Add warmth and holiday spice.
• Salt (¼ tsp)
  Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Mixed dried fruits (300 g)
  Raisins, currants, chopped apricots—each bite is packed with texture.
• Chopped walnuts or almonds (50 g, optional)
  Add crunch and nutty depth.
• Orange juice or rum (3 tbsp)
  Moistens the batter and adds flavor.

Optional: Soak dried fruits in rum overnight for extra richness.

Glaze:

• Apricot jam (3 tbsp)
  Adds shine and fruity sweetness.
• Water (1 tbsp)
  Thins the jam for brushing.

Optional: Add a splash of orange liqueur for a boozy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F).

Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

Tip: Use a light-colored pan for even baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl:

• Beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

Tip: Scrape down the sides for even mixing.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Zest

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.

Stir in orange zest.

Optional: Add a splash of vanilla extract for depth.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:

• Whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Fold dry mixture into wet ingredients.

Tip: Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 5: Add Fruit and Nuts

Fold in:

• Mixed dried fruits
• Chopped nuts (if using)
• Orange juice or rum

Mix until just combined.

Optional: Toss fruit in a little flour to prevent sinking.

Step 6: Bake

Spoon batter into prepared loaf pan.

Smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 55–65 minutes, until:

• Top is golden
• Skewer inserted comes out clean

Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.

Step 7: Glaze

In a small saucepan:

• Warm apricot jam and water over low heat.

Brush warm glaze over hot loaf.

Tip: Glaze twice for extra shine and flavor.

Step 8: Serve

Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Pair with:

• Spiced tea
• Mulled wine
• Vanilla ice cream

Presentation Tip: Garnish with orange slices or sugared cranberries.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Holiday brunch
• Edible gifts
• Afternoon tea
• Cozy winter evenings

Serve with:

• Hot cider
• Whipped cream
• A drizzle of honey

Tip: Wrap in parchment and ribbon for gifting.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Lemon Glaze

Swap orange zest for lemon and glaze with lemon jam.

Mini Loaves

Divide batter into mini pans and bake for 30–35 minutes.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter and egg substitute.

Chocolate Fruitcake

Add chopped dark chocolate or cocoa powder.

Tropical Twist

Use dried pineapple, mango, and coconut.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Bake up to 3 days in advance.
• Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Tip: Thaw overnight and glaze before serving.

Nutrition Notes (Per Slice, ~1 of 10)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: ~5g
• Carbohydrates: ~38g
• Fat: ~16g
• Sugar: ~22g
• Sodium: ~180mg
• Fiber: ~2g

This loaf is:

• Moist and flavorful
• Festive and elegant
• Comfort food approved
• Perfect for gifting

Final Thoughts

This Golden Glazed Holiday Fruitcake Loaf is more than just a seasonal bake—it’s a celebration of warmth, flavor, and tradition. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday table or enjoying a quiet slice by the fire, it’s guaranteed to bring joy.