Old-Fashioned Coconut & Fruit Cake

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Old-Fashioned Coconut & Fruit Cake

A Timeless Homemade Dessert Filled with Tradition and Tropical Flavor

The Old-Fashioned Coconut & Fruit Cake is a nostalgic dessert that brings together the comforting richness of butter cake, the sweetness of dried fruits, and the gentle tropical aroma of coconut. This cake is often associated with family gatherings, holidays, and handwritten recipe cards passed down through generations. Unlike dense modern fruitcakes, this version is moist, tender, and perfectly balanced—sweet but not heavy, festive yet simple enough for everyday enjoyment.

What Makes This Cake Special?

This cake stands out for its soft crumb, natural fruit sweetness, and toasted coconut flavor. The coconut adds texture and aroma, while the mixed fruits provide bursts of color and flavor in every bite. It’s the kind of cake that improves with time, making it ideal for baking ahead and sharing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Dry Ingredients

2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1¼ cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Flavor & Texture Add-ins

1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
1½ cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, chopped dates, candied cherries, pineapple, or apricots)
¾ cup milk or coconut milk
1 tablespoon flour (for coating fruits)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease a round or loaf cake pan thoroughly and line the bottom with parchment paper. Lightly dust the sides with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit

Place the mixed dried fruits in a bowl and toss them with 1 tablespoon of flour. This simple step helps keep the fruits evenly suspended in the batter rather than sinking to the bottom during baking.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until pale, light, and fluffy. This step is essential for creating a soft and tender cake texture.