Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze

Posted on October 22, 2025

Introduction to Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the comforting flavors of a classic dessert. That’s where my Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze comes in! This delightful cake is not just a treat; it’s a warm hug in dessert form. Perfect for busy moms and professionals, it’s a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich spices and a luscious rum glaze, this fruitcake is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze

This Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze is a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy days. The moist texture and rich spices create a comforting experience that warms the heart. Plus, the rum glaze adds a touch of indulgence, turning an ordinary dessert into something truly special. Your family will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixed dried fruits: A combination of raisins, apricots, and cranberries adds sweetness and chewiness.
Chopped nuts: Walnuts or pecans provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
All-purpose flour: This is the base of your cake, giving it structure and body.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Ground cinnamon: This warm spice brings a cozy aroma and flavor to the cake.
Ground nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds depth and a hint of warmth.

Ground ginger: This spice gives a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the fruits.
Salt: Just a touch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter creates a rich, moist texture in the cake.

Brown sugar: This adds a deep caramel flavor and moisture to the cake.
Large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s richness.
Dark rum: A splash of rum not only adds flavor but also enhances the cake’s festive spirit.

Orange juice: Fresh juice brightens the flavors and adds a hint of citrus.
Vanilla extract: This classic flavor rounds out the sweetness and adds warmth.

For those who want to customize, feel free to swap out the dried fruits for your favorites or use different nuts. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 325°F (160°C). This is crucial for baking your Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze to perfection. While the oven warms up, grab a loaf pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray—whatever you have on hand. This step ensures your cake slides out easily after baking. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a cake that sticks!

Step 2: Mix Dried Fruits and Nuts

Now, let’s give those dried fruits and nuts a little love! In a bowl, toss your mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts with about a tablespoon of flour. This simple trick helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake. It’s like giving them a cozy little coat to keep them afloat during baking. Plus, it adds a nice texture to your fruitcake.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This is where the magic begins! Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, making it feel like the holidays are right around the corner. Just imagine the warmth of those spices!

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This step is key for a moist cake. I usually use an electric mixer for this, but a good old-fashioned whisk works too—just be prepared for a workout! The mixture should look pale and airy, which means you’re on the right track.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Next, it’s time to add the eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Then, pour in the dark rum, orange juice, and vanilla extract. The combination of these wet ingredients will create a rich, flavorful batter. Just imagine how delicious your Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze will taste with all these wonderful flavors mingling together!

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cake, not a tough one! The batter will be thick and fragrant, and you’ll start to see the beautiful colors of the fruits and nuts peeking through. It’s like a little treasure chest of flavors!

Step 7: Fold in Fruits and Nuts

Time to fold in those floured fruits and nuts! Gently mix them into the batter using a spatula. This step is all about being gentle; we don’t want to deflate the batter. Just think of it as tucking the fruits and nuts into a warm, cozy bed of cake batter. They’ll be so happy to be included!

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly. Just try not to peek too often; we want that cake to rise beautifully!

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. While it cools, prepare the rum glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of rum until you reach your desired consistency. Drizzle this luscious glaze over the cooled cake, and watch it soak in. Your Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze is now ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Success

Let your Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze sit for a few days for deeper flavors.
Store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh.
Experiment with different dried fruits and nuts for a unique twist.

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Don’t skip the flour coating on fruits and nuts; it really helps!

Equipment Needed

Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best, but any similar size will do.

Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry.
Electric mixer or whisk: An electric mixer makes creaming easier, but a whisk works too.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for folding in fruits and nuts.

Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free version.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based butter alternative.

Fruit Swap: Experiment with different dried fruits like figs, dates, or cherries for a unique flavor profile.
Nut-Free: Omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee to enhance the flavors.
For a festive touch, garnish with candied orange slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Slice and serve on a beautiful platter for an eye-catching presentation.

FAQs about Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze

Can I make this Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few days in advance allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it moist.

What can I substitute for dark rum in the glaze?

If you prefer not to use rum, you can substitute it with apple juice or a splash of vanilla extract. Both options will still add a lovely flavor to your glaze.

How should I store the Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze?

Store your fruitcake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly!

Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?

While dried fruits work best for this recipe, you can use fresh fruits. Just be aware that they may add extra moisture, so adjust the flour accordingly to maintain the cake’s texture.

Is this Spiced Fruitcake suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! You can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Spiced Fruitcake with Rum Glaze is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories and sharing joy with loved ones. The warm spices and rich rum glaze evoke the spirit of the holidays, making every slice a celebration. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or gifting it to friends, this cake brings a sense of togetherness that’s hard to beat. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the delightful aromas, and let this fruitcake become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Trust me, it’s a treat you won’t want to miss!