Chocolate Fruit Cake Recipe – Moist, Rich & Easy Homemade Dessert

This chocolate fruit cake is the perfect blend of rich cocoa flavor and sweet dried fruits. Soft, moist, and full of texture, this easy fruit cake recipe is ideal for holidays, tea time, or whenever you want a comforting homemade treat.

Ingredients for Chocolate Fruit Cake

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (50g) cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (180g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, cherries, mixed peel)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) hot water or hot milk

How to Make Chocolate Fruit Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients in batches, alternating with milk. Mix gently until smooth.

Step 6: Add Hot Liquid and Fruits

Pour in the hot water or hot milk and mix lightly to loosen the batter.
Fold in the mixed dried fruits evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and level the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Fruit Cake

• Soak dried fruits in warm liquid for extra moisture (optional)
• Do not overmix to keep the cake soft
• Use good-quality cocoa powder for richer flavor