Costco Fruit Cake Recipe | Rich, Moist & Festive
Craving that rich, nutty, and fruity cake that tastes just like Costco’s famous holiday fruit cake? This Costco Fruit Cake Recipe is my go-to whenever I want to bake a festive, moist, and flavorful treat that’s perfect for the holidays. Packed with dried cherries, apricots, raisins, and pecans, it delivers the same nostalgic taste that everyone loves, but with a fresh, homemade twist.
Dough Preparation
Preparing the batter for this Costco Fruit Cake is the key to achieving that moist, rich, and festive flavor. Follow these steps carefully to get the perfect texture.
Mixing the Ingredients
- Prepare the Fruit & Nut Mix: In a large bowl, combine the dried cherries, apricots, raisins, and chopped pecans. Toss them lightly with a tablespoon of flour (taken from the measured flour). This prevents the fruits from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This makes the flour mixture airy and ensures the cake rises evenly.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar”: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes). This step creates a tender crumb for the cake.
- Add the Eggs One at a Time”: Crack in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps the mixture stay smooth and creamy without curdling.
- Flavor the Batter: Stir in the orange zest and almond extract. These flavors give the cake a subtle citrusy brightness and nutty aroma, just like the Costco fruit cake.
Folding Everything Together
- Gradually add the sifted flour mixture to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
- Fold in the dried fruit and nut mix using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; this ensures your fruit cake stays moist.
At this stage, your batter should be thick, fragrant, and speckled with colorful fruits and nuts, ready to go into the pan.
Baking the Fruit Cake
Baking this Costco-inspired fruit cake low and slow ensures it develops that dense, moist texture while allowing the flavors of the fruit and nuts to blend beautifully.
Preparing the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift the cake out once baked.
Baking Instructions
- Pour the prepared batter into the loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Smooth the top for a nice, even finish.
- Bake for about 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the top browns too quickly, tent the cake loosely with aluminum foil during the last 30 minutes of baking.
Cooling the Cake
Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before carefully lifting it out using the parchment paper. Allow it to cool completely before slicing; this helps the flavors settle and keeps the cake from crumbling.
Serving the Fruit Cake
This fruit cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it in a few delightful ways:
- Classic Style: Slice and enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Festive Touch: Dust the top with powdered sugar for a snowy holiday look.
- Indulgent Option: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Every slice of this cake is rich, moist, and packed with chewy fruit and crunchy pecans, just like the ones from Costco during the holidays.
Storage Instructions
How to Keep the Fruit Cake Fresh
After baking, wrap your fruit cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps keep the cake moist and flavorful.
Refrigeration Option
If you prefer more extended storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing the Fruit Cake
For even longer storage, freeze the cake. Wrap it in plastic wrap, then foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last up to 3 months. To enjoy again, thaw overnight at room temperature.
Pro Tips for the Best Costco Fruit Cake
- Soak the Dried Fruit – For even richer flavor, soak the dried cherries, apricots, and raisins in orange juice or rum for a few hours before baking.
- Don’t Overmix – Gently fold in the fruit and nuts to keep the cake moist and prevent toughness.
- Bake Low & Slow – Stick to the low temperature of 300°F to prevent the cake from drying out.
Flavor Boost – Add a splash of vanilla extract or even a pinch of cinnamon for a holiday twist.
Costco Fruit Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Video
Notes
Required Kitchen Tools
When preparing a rich Costco-style fruit cake, having the right tools makes the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what I use every time I bake mine:- Large Mixing Bowls – For combining fruit, nuts, and dry ingredients.
- Hand or Stand Mixer – To cream butter, sugar, and eggs until fluffy.
- Rubber Spatula – Perfect for folding in fruits and nuts without overmixing.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient ratios.
- Loaf Pan (9×5 inch) – Lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Wire Cooling Rack – Helps the cake cool evenly after baking.
Costco Fruit Cake Recipe FAQs
Can I soak the dried fruits before making the cake?
Yes! Soaking the dried cherries, apricots, and raisins in orange juice, brandy, or rum for a few hours (or even overnight) enhances their flavor and keeps the cake extra moist.
Why is my fruit cake dry?
A fruit cake can turn out dry if it’s baked at too high a temperature or for too long. Always bake low and slow at 300°F (150°C) and keep an eye on it. Wrapping and storing it properly also helps retain moisture.
Can I make this Costco fruit cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Fruit cakes taste even better after resting because the flavors deepen. You can bake this cake 1–2 weeks in advance and store it in an airtight container (or wrap tightly in foil).
Can I use different fruits and nuts?
Yes, you can customize! Swap in dried cranberries, figs, prunes, or walnuts. Just keep the total amount of fruit and nuts the same so the cake structure isn’t affected.
How long does homemade Costco-style fruit cake last?
At room temperature: about 5 days.
In the refrigerator: up to 2 weeks.
In the freezer: up to 3 months (when appropriately wrapped).
Do I need to add alcohol like traditional fruit cakes?
No, this recipe doesn’t require alcohol. But if you want that classic flavor, you can soak the fruit in rum or brandy and even brush the finished cake with a bit of alcohol before storing.
Conclusion
Making this Costco Fruit Cake Recipe at home is a holiday tradition I never skip. It’s easy, packed with festive flavors, and has that perfect balance of chewy fruits, crunchy pecans, and a tender, buttery crumb. The best part? It tastes just like the classic version you’d find at Costco, but fresher and made with love in your own kitchen.
Whether you’re serving it at a Christmas party, gifting it to friends, or simply enjoying a slice with your evening tea, this fruit cake is sure to bring comfort and joy to every bite.
So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and bake up this holiday classic. I promise, you’ll want to make it year after year.
Sophia Smith is a passionate home baker and dessert enthusiast who loves sharing her favorite recipes, baking tips, and kitchen secrets. Through Roses Baking Passion, she inspires others to bake with love and creativity every day.
