Mouth-watering fruit cake recipe for any occasion
Listen up, my fellow dessert lovers! I am about to introduce you to one of the most delicious and decadent fruit cakes you’ll ever taste. Brace yourselves for the Nuts About Fruit Cake Recipe, a masterpiece that boasts an array of flavors and textures that will have you begging for more.
Now, I know what some of you may be thinking. “Fruit cake? That dry, dense cardboard-like thing that grandma used to force upon us every Christmas?” But wait a minute, let me tell you something, this is not your grandma’s fruit cake recipe. This recipe is different, it’s unique. It’s packed full of delicious nuts – brazil nuts, pecans, and walnut halves – giving it a wonderful crunch and a nutty flavor.
But here’s the secret ingredient that makes all the difference: marshmallows. Yes, my friends, you read that right. Marshmallows give this fruit cake a soft, pillowy texture that makes every bite heavenly. And with the addition of candied cherries and dried apricots, this cake is sure to satisfy even the sweetest sweet tooth.
So why should you give this recipe a try? Firstly, because it’s absolutely delicious. But even more than that, it’s versatile. You can serve it for dessert or alongside your morning coffee or tea as well. It can be served during festive holidays or even when you have the urge to bake something special anytime around.
So there you have it folks – get ready to be blown away by this ultimate nut fruitcake using 5 different and delicious nuts!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re nuts about fruit cake, then let me tell you, this recipe is going to knock your socks off. I know what you’re thinking – fruit cake? That dry and boring dessert that everyone seems to despise? Well, think again! This isn’t just any fruit cake, my friends. This is the ultimate nut fruit cake recipe using 5 different delicious nuts and dried fruits.
What makes this cake so special is its unique combination of ingredients. We start with a classic fruit cake base- moist, yet fluffy, filled with dried apricots, candied cherries and other delicious fruits. But wait, it gets even better because we add in a flavorful mix of brazil nuts, pecans, walnuts, and other nutty goodness that gives this cake the ultimate crunch factor.
Not only does this recipe have the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can switch up the dried fruits and nuts according to your preference or even substitute some of the ingredients altogether. Plus, it’s a perfect holiday treat!
Trust me, once you try this nutty fruitcake once; it will become an instant favorite in your household. Get ready to impress your guests with this festive fruit cake decorating options like glorious chocolate glaze or dusting it up with powdered sugar. So don’t delay; grab your apron and get ready to bake away because my friend- Life is too short to miss out on delicious treats like these!
Ingredient List
Before we start getting our hands dirty, let’s take a minute to appreciate the star players of this recipe: nuts and dried fruit. They bring a depth of flavor and texture to the cake that is unparalleled. For this recipe, we are using pecans, walnuts, dried apricots, and candied cherries which are all easily available at local grocery stores. To ensure the best results, make sure that you buy high quality nuts and fruit with no added sugar.
The Nitty-Gritty
Here is what you’ll need to gather before starting:
– 1 1/2 cups of whole pecans
– 2 cups of pecan halves
– Walnut halves (2 cups)
– 1 1/2 cups of whole candied cherries
– 1 cup of dried apricots
These ingredients give a classic taste but don’t be afraid to experiment with different kinds of nuts and fruit to add a personal touch to your creation. Just remember that any substitutions you make could affect both the taste and texture of the cake so be careful with altering the ingredient amounts.
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s dive into the heart of this Nuts About Fruit Cake recipe. Follow these detailed steps to create your ultimate nut fruit cake masterpiece.
Ingredients
First, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here is a list of what you need:
- 1 1/2 cups of mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, and chopped apricots)
- 1 1/2 cups of whole brazil nuts
- 2 cups of pecan halves
- 1 jar of maraschino cherries
- 2 tsp of baking powder
- 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp of salt
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 tbsp of vanilla extract
- Confectioner’s sugar for dusting
Preparing the cake batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Butter a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Chop the mixed dried fruits and combine them with the brazil nuts, miniature marshmallows, and pecans in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the maraschino cherries and mix together.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract and beat again.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix gently until just blended.
- Fold in the fruit-nut mixture until evenly distributed.
Baking the fruitcake
- Spoon batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth out surface with spatula or spoon.
- Place walnut halves on top for decoration if desired.
- Bake the cake in preheated oven for 65 to 75 minutes or until toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean.
- Transfer pan to wire rack to cool for 30 minutes.
- Using a skewer or toothpick poke some holes into cake and drizzle some spirits over it (optional). Like brandy or whatever you like.
- Place on serving platter or wrap well and store in refrigerator for up to several weeks.
Congratulations! You’ve made your very own ultimate nut fruitcake using 5 different delicious nuts and sweet mixed fruits! Don’t forget to dust it off with some powdered sugar before serving to give it that festive touch!
Substitutions and Variations
Now, let’s get creative with the Nuts About Fruit Cake recipe! Don’t be afraid to make it your own by trying out different substitutions and variations.
To switch up the nuts in this recipe, you could go for brazil nuts or walnuts instead of pecans. Brazil nuts have a unique flavor that will add some flair to your cake. Walnuts, on the other hand, have a slightly bitter taste that goes well with dried fruits.
If you’re looking for a more traditional holiday fruitcake flavor, add in some candied fruit or glazed fruit. Candied cherries or dried apricots will give your cake that festive pop of color and sweet taste. Glazed fruit, such as pineapples or peaches, will also add a nice moistness to the cake.
Feeling adventurous? Time to incorporate some chocolate! You can use chocolate chips or even chocolate cake mix for a rich and indulgent twist on this recipe. Chocolate pairs well with fruit and nut flavors.
For those who prefer spice cakes, try using spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix. You can also add in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an even spicier kick.
Finally, don’t limit yourself with only using this recipe for a fruitcake. This nutty base can be used for other types of cakes as well. Try making a plum cake by incorporating dried plums into the batter. Or make a walnut cake by solely using walnuts instead of pecans.
Incorporating these substitutions and variations are sure to transform this recipe into something truly unique and special. Experiment and find what works best for you!
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have this delectable nut fruit cake, what’s the best way to serve and pair it? Well, you can enjoy a slice of this ultimate nut fruitcake as it is, dusted with a generous amount of powdered sugar or top it off with some maraschino cherries. Trust me; this nut fruit cake is so delicious that just one bite of it will leave you craving for more.
If you are looking for something else to serve with your fruit and nut cake, then try adding a dollop of whipped cream on top. The whipped cream adds a lightness to the cake and pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of dried fruits and nuts.
A fantastic option for pairing with the nutty fruitcake is your favorite glass of red wine. The sharpness of the wine brings out the richness in the cake’s flavors, making this combination a classic holiday treat. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, then a cup of coffee, tea or hot cocoa pairs perfectly too.
Apart from serving options, another ultimate way to enjoy our nut fruit cake recipe is by glazing some dark chocolate over it. You can also warm up the cake slightly in the oven or microwave before topping them with glazed fruits like candied cherries or apricots. These garnished fruits not only look fancy but also make a perfect blend with the moist fruit and nut cake.
In conclusion, there are many ways to serve and pair this indulgent nut fruit cake recipe, and these are just some suggestions. Whether you choose to eat it alone, dress it up with toppings, add cream or wine, or glaze it with chocolate or fruits—this dessert creation will be an excellent addition to any holiday celebration!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As much as I love to indulge in a freshly made Nuts About Fruit Cake, sometimes it’s just not feasible to bake a cake from scratch every time you crave it. That’s where make-ahead strategies come in.
This recipe makes an excellent candidate for make-ahead preparations. You can bake the cake up to one month before serving and store it easily. To do so, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Be sure to label the cake with the date it was made before freezing it. When you are ready to serve, let the cake thaw at room temperature.
Another option for making things easy for yourself is to bake the cake layers ahead of time and freeze them. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil. The wrapped layers can remain frozen for up to six months. When you’re ready, thaw the layers unwrapped at room temperature until they become soft before decorating.
Storing an already made fruitcake properly will help preserve its freshness over time. For optimal storage distance, cut your Nuts About Fruit Cake into pieces that are reasonable serving sizes and wrap them individually with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Stored like this, your cake will maintain its peak flavor for up to one week at room temperature, or for months if you place it in the fridge.
If you prefer a warm slice of fruitcake, try reheating individual slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds each. Not only will warming the slice enhance its fruity flavor but also soften any nuts and candies that have hardened after storage. But be careful not to overheat; otherwise, the cake may dry out quickly.
By following these make-ahead tips and storing recommendations, you can always have a slice of your favorite Christmas fruitcake ready to go without spending hours labouring over it each time!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now, I know that every baker wants to create a fruit nut cake that stands out! One that is moist, nutty and filled with delicious ingredients. That’s exactly why I am here to share with you some tips that will ensure your Nuts About Fruit Cake Recipe turns out perfect every time.
First and foremost, it’s important to always use room temperature butter or margarine. This will allow the butter/margarine to fully incorporate into the dry ingredients resulting in a smoother batter for the cake. Also, make sure all your other ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking.
Another tip is to soak your dried fruit in a mixture of liquids like fruit juice or liquor for about 30 minutes prior to adding to your cake mix. This helps the dried fruit become more tender allowing them to bake evenly into the cake.
In addition, when mixing in the nuts, be sure to chop them coarsely and not too finely. This way they will add a nice crunch and texture to the cake even after baking.
Furthermore, do not overmix the batter as it can cause the cake to be tough and dry. Combine dry and wet ingredients until just enough so that there aren’t any lumps in the mixture. Also, sift your dry ingredients together first before including them into the wet ones for an even distribution of delicate flavors!
Another essential tip is to pay attention to baking times as they can vary depending on your oven and climate. Set your timer for 5-7 minutes less than what is mentioned in the recipe then check on it every few minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean from the center of the cake.
Lastly, while we understand you want to enjoy right after taking it out of the oven, let it cool off before trying to slice it! This way, you’ll get clean slices without crumbling.
By following these tips, you’re guaranteed an ultimate nut fruitcake using 5 different delicious nuts – moist and filled with flavor! Happy baking!
FAQ
Before we conclude, let me answer some of the frequently asked questions that usually come up when making this nutty, fruity treat. So, pull up a chair and grab a snack, because we’re about to dive into the deep end of everything you need to know about Nuts About Fruit Cake.
Is there nuts in fruit cake?
A delicious baked good known as fruitcake can be made by combining dried or candied fruit, nuts, and spices, which can be soaked in alcohol if desired.
What two ingredients help fruitcake last longer?
Fruitcakes are known for their remarkable longevity due to the combination of sugar, low moisture ingredients, and high-proof spirits, making them among the most enduring foods in the world. This unmatched combination of ingredients makes fruitcakes perfect for long-term storage and enjoyment, providing a delicious treat for months beyond their baking date.
What is the origin nutty as a fruitcake?
Describing someone as nutty implies that they are acting in a crazy or reckless manner. This usage of the term dates back to at least 1821. Interestingly, the word nutty is also a literal description of foods that contain nuts. The idiom “nutty as a fruitcake” reflects this dual meaning, as fruitcake traditionally contains both fruit and nuts. This phrase was first recorded in 1935.
What is the difference between Christmas cake and fruit cake?
Pudding is a frequent ingredient in Christmas cakes, whereas fruit cakes tend to contain butter. It’s worth noting, though, that some Christmas cake recipes do feature butter. A well-loved type of Christmas cake is the Whisky Dundee, which hails from Scotland and follows the traditional recipe.
Bottom Line
So there you have it, folks – my ultimate Nuts About Fruit Cake recipe! I’m sure that this holiday treat will bring a lot of joy to your family and friends. With its nutty and fruity goodness, moist texture, and irresistible aroma, this cake is perfect for any occasion.
As a baker, I know what makes a cake great. And with the combination of 5 different delicious nuts, festive fruit, and a touch of chocolate, this recipe truly is the ultimate nut fruitcake. Trust me when I say that once you try this recipe out for yourself, you’ll never go back to any other fruit cake again.
I hope that my tips and recommendations throughout this article have helped you to make the perfect Nuts About Fruit Cake. Remember to utilize substitutions and variations to personalize your cake for your own needs and preferences. Most importantly, have fun and let your creativity shine through.
Now go grab those ingredients, preheat that oven, and get to baking! Let the sweet aroma of dried fruits and nuts fill your home as you create a masterpiece for your loved ones to enjoy. Don’t forget to share your success stories in the comments below – I can’t wait to hear all about them.
Happy baking!
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter or 3 tablespoons margarine
- 1 (10 ounce) package regular marshmallows or 4 cups miniature marshmallows
- 5 1/2 cups KELLOGG'S® RICE KRISPIES® cereal
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 6 maraschino cherries, well drained
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange juice or 1 tablespoon apple juice
Instructions
- In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.
- Add KELLOGG’S® RICE KRISPIES® cereal, fruit and pecans (if desired). Stir until well coated.
- Press mixture into six 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 1 1/2-inch pans coated with cooking spray. Cool. Remove from pans.
- Cut each cherry into 5 slivers. Arrange slivers in shape of flower on top of each loaf.
- In small bowl whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice. Spoon over loaves. Let stand at least 1 hour. Best if served the same day.
- MICROWAVE DIRECTIONS: In microwave-safe bowl heat butter and marshmallows on HIGH for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Continue with recipe as directed above. Microwave cooking times may vary.
- NOTES.
- For best results, use fresh marshmallows.
- 1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow crème can be substituted for marshmallows.
- Diet, reduced calorie or tub margarine is not recommended.
- Store no more than two days at room temperature in airtight container. To freeze, place in single layer on wax paper in airtight container. Freeze for up to 6 weeks. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
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Steven is a chef by heritage, so it’s no wonder why baking is such a big part of who he is. To share his passion for all things sweet, he created cookiesncrepes.com. It’s the perfect platform to indulge in delicious treats, all with a sprinkle of his signature flare.