Making an Old Fashioned Fruit Cake is like stepping back in time. This classic dessert has a rich history and often finds its place during holiday gatherings. The blend of dried and candied fruits along with warm spices creates a comforting aroma that fills the kitchen. Often considered a labor of love, this cake brings people together, evoking memories of family traditions. It is slightly dense, beautifully colorful, and offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.

Fruit cake might get a mixed reputation, but homemade versions like this one stand out. The use of fresh ingredients and your choice of fruits can create a cake that’s moist and delicious. With the right baking techniques, it’s easy to create a cake that is perfect for gift-giving or holiday feasts. So roll up your sleeves and try making this heartwarming dessert to delight your family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Making an Old Fashioned Fruit Cake is a delightful way to celebrate tradition. Its timeless flavors and festive colors make it a beautiful centerpiece for any table. The cake is not only delicious but also a homemade gift that anyone would love to receive. It can be enjoyed fresh or aged for a richer flavor, making it versatile for different occasions. Plus, the joy of baking something from scratch is a rewarding experience that fills your home with warmth and nostalgia.

How to Make Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

Ingredients:

1 cup fruit cake mix or your favorite dried or candied fruit
1 lb candied pineapple wedges
8 oz candied red cherries
8 oz candied green cherries
1 cup chopped dried apples, packed
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
Fold in the fruit cake mix, candied pineapple, cherries, dried apples, and nuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

Serving Old Fashioned Fruit Cake can be just as special as making it. Slice the cake and serve it plain, or pair it with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple icing glaze. You can also serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. This cake is delicious both warm and at room temperature.

How to Store Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

To store your Old Fashioned Fruit Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. This cake actually improves with age, so it can last for weeks, especially if kept well. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices, so you can enjoy them at your convenience.

Tips to Make Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

To make the best Old Fashioned Fruit Cake, consider soaking your dried fruits in rum or orange juice overnight for extra flavor. Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. Be gentle when folding in the fruits to prevent them from sinking. Testing the cake for doneness is key; it should be a deep golden brown, and a toothpick should come out clean. Lastly, allow the cake to cool completely before slicing for perfect portions.

Variation

You can customize your Old Fashioned Fruit Cake by experimenting with different fruits and nuts. Feel free to swap the candied fruits for fresh fruits, or use a mix of your favorite nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Adding a splash of citrus zest or a pinch of almond extract can enhance the flavor even further. If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar or use unsweetened dried fruit instead.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruits instead of candied fruits?

Yes, you can use fresh fruits, but remember to adjust the drying time since fresh fruits add more moisture.

How long will the cake last?

If stored properly, the cake can last for several weeks at room temperature and even longer in the fridge.

Can I freeze Old Fashioned Fruit Cake?

Yes, the cake freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container.

Is it necessary to age the cake?

Aging the cake is not necessary but can enhance the flavors. Many people enjoy fruit cakes that have been stored for a few weeks.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making in advance, as it retains its flavor and texture for a long time.

Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

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A classic dessert featuring a rich blend of dried and candied fruits, warm spices, and a comforting aroma, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Author: Linda Dawson
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
Fold in the fruit cake mix, candied pineapple, cherries, dried apples, and nuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.