Old Fashioned Fruitcake: A Timeless Holiday Delight

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Old Fashioned Fruitcake is a cherished holiday classic that has delighted families for generations. This recipe delivers a moist and flavorful cake, packed with chopped pecans, dates, and colorful candied fruits. The slow-baking process at a low temperature, combined with steam, ensures that the cake remains rich and tender, making it an essential treat for festive gatherings. Whether you’re looking to revive old traditions or create new ones, this fruitcake is sure to bring joy to your celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Fruitcake

This Old Fashioned Fruitcake is not just a dessert; it’s a tradition. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

It’s a traditional fruitcake that evokes nostalgia during the holidays.
The rich blend of flavors makes it a classic fruitcake that everyone loves.
Filled with nuts and dried fruits, it’s a rich fruitcake with nuts that provides texture and taste.
It’s a moist fruitcake with dried fruits that stays fresh longer than other cakes.
The recipe yields enough for about 20 servings, perfect for sharing.
It’s versatile; enjoy it as is or with a drizzle of whiskey for an old-fashioned fruitcake with whiskey.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Fruitcake

Gather these items:

1 pound pecans
1 pound dates, pitted and chopped
1/2 pound candied cherries (red and green)
1/2 pound candied pineapple (red and green or yellow)
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1 tablespoon rum, bourbon, or brandy)
Cooking spray
Wax paper or parchment paper

How to Make Old Fashioned Fruitcake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 250°F (121°C). Place a shallow pan about one-third filled with boiling water on the lower oven rack to create steam for moist baking. Be prepared to refill the water as needed during baking.
Step 2: Spray two 9-inch loaf pans with cooking spray, then line them with wax paper or parchment paper. Spray the lining lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Chop the dates and pecans into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the cake.
Step 4: In a large bowl, add the chopped dates, pecans, candied cherries, and candied pineapple. Sift the sugar, flour, baking powder, and kosher salt evenly over the fruit and nuts. Mix together by hand to thoroughly combine.
Step 5: Beat the eggs until light and frothy, then add the vanilla extract or your choice of 1 tablespoon rum, bourbon, or brandy. Pour this mixture over the fruit and dry ingredient blend. Mix with your hands to fully incorporate; the batter will be thick and sticky.
Step 6: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans. Press gently to compact the batter, eliminating large air pockets or spaces.
Step 7: Place the filled loaf pans on the oven rack above the pan of hot water. Bake at 250°F (121°C) for 1 hour and 45 minutes, replenishing the water in the steam pan as necessary to maintain moisture.
Step 8: Once baked, remove the fruitcakes from the oven and let them cool completely in the pans before removing and serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Fruitcake

Keep these in mind:

This recipe makes about 20 servings, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Store the fruitcake in an airtight container for freshness.
Consider soaking the dried fruits in whiskey or rum for added flavor.
Allow the fruitcake to age for a few days for the best taste.

Best Ways to Serve Old Fashioned Fruitcake

Here are a few delightful serving ideas:

Slice and serve as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream.
Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
Top with a drizzle of icing or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch.

How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Fruitcake

Store any leftover fruitcake in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and refrigerate. To enjoy it warm, simply slice and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Fruitcake

What’s the secret to perfect Old Fashioned Fruitcake?

The secret lies in the quality of ingredients and the slow baking process. Using fresh nuts and dried fruits, along with the right balance of moisture, ensures a moist and dense fruitcake that delights the senses.

Can I make Old Fashioned Fruitcake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a week or two ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it properly to maintain freshness, and it will taste even better when you serve it.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Old Fashioned Fruitcake?

To avoid a dry cake, ensure you’re using the correct amount of moisture and steam during baking. Also, be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough texture.

Variations of Old Fashioned Fruitcake You Can Try

Here are some delightful variations to consider:

Incorporate different dried fruits like figs or apricots for a unique twist.
Add spices such as nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm flavor profile.
For a chocolatey version, fold in cocoa powder or dark chocolate chips.
For a more festive touch, consider using holiday-themed sprinkles on top.

Old Fashioned Fruitcake: A Timeless Holiday Delight - Old Fashioned Fruitcake - main visual representation

For more delicious holiday recipes, check out our Gingerbread Tiramisu or Cranberry Custard Pie.

Old Fashioned Fruitcake: A Timeless Holiday Delight - Old Fashioned Fruitcake - additional detail

To learn more about the benefits of dried fruits, visit Healthline.

For additional festive ideas, consider our Peppermint Christmas Float and Honey Roasted Root Vegetables.