Easy Eggless Fruit Cake with Orange Juice & Spices

Eggless Fruit Cake

A Moist, Spiced Cake That’s Perfect for Holidays and Beyond

If you’re looking for a fruit cake that’s moist, flavorful, and completely egg-free, you’ve just found your new favorite bake. This Eggless Fruit Cake is packed with mixed dried fruits, gently spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and kept moist and rich with orange juice and oil. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a slice of nostalgia, this recipe delivers every time.

It’s simple, dairy-optional, and freezer-friendly—everything you want in a go-to fruit cake recipe.


Why I Love This Recipe

I love that this fruit cake doesn’t rely on eggs to be rich or tender. The orange juice gives it a subtle citrus brightness, while the warm spices make it taste like a cozy afternoon in cake form. It’s quick to mix up in one bowl (no mixer needed!), bakes evenly, and slices like a dream. Plus, it keeps beautifully, making it great for gifting or snacking throughout the week.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates)
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional – walnuts or pecans work well)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Substitutions & Notes

  • Orange Juice: Apple juice or pineapple juice can work if you want a different fruit profile.
  • Oil: Use coconut oil for a slight tropical vibe or melted butter (if not vegan).
  • Dried Fruits: Chopped apricots, figs, or cranberries are excellent add-ins.
  • Nuts: Totally optional—but toasted pecans add great crunch and flavor.

How to Make Eggless Fruit Cake

  1. Prep the Oven & Pan
    Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients
    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients
    In another bowl, mix orange juice, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Combine Wet & Dry
    Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
  5. Fold in Fruits & Nuts
    Stir in the dried fruits and optional nuts until evenly distributed.
  6. Bake
    Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool
    Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success

  • Toss dried fruits in a spoonful of flour before adding to the batter. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom.
  • Check early: Start testing doneness around the 45-minute mark so you don’t overbake.
  • Let it rest overnight: The flavor deepens beautifully if you let it sit covered for a day.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This cake is delicious on its own or with a warm drink. Try it with:

  • A mug of spiced chai or classic hot cocoa
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream
  • A drizzle of warm orange glaze or chocolate sauce

For a festive dessert board, pair this cake with these caramel apple pie cookies or pumpkin spice muffins for variety.


Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Fridge: Lasts up to a week—bring to room temp before serving.
  • Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Keep your baking streak going with these cozy favorites:


Final Thoughts

This Eggless Fruit Cake is everything a comforting bake should be: easy to make, rich with flavor, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re baking for guests with dietary restrictions or just want a no-fuss dessert that still delivers on flavor, this recipe is a winner.

Tried it out? Let us know how it went in the comments or tag @chefmaniac in your photos. Happy baking—and don’t forget to check back for more crave-worthy treats every week!