christmas cake without alcohol

[llareggub]

I'd like to make our christmas cake this weekend, and usually I'd soak the fruit in alcohol overnight. For various reasons I cannot use alcohol in cooking so need an alternative.

Is it possible to use a non-alcoholic equivalent and still bake in advance, or will it better to make it the week before christmas?

I was thinking apple juice or similar. Any advice?

I think orange juice would be suitable too (in fact I am sure of it)

I prefer mine made in advance, but am pretty certain Delia has a recipe that can be made the week before.

imho i'd make it as close to xmas as poss and would be inclined to soak the fruit in tea

I usually soak it in tea to make bara brith. Why do you think you wouldn't make it now? Is it because of the lack of alcohol?

Gah. I prefer mine make in advance too. Just don't want it to be rotten!

yes i'm afraid so
but it doesn't mean that it won't be nice
it will just have a shorter shelf life

Ah well. I shall take your advice, thank you.