Ada'S Incredible (Nut) Fruit Cake
A rich, nutty fruit cake packed with dates, candied fruit, and pecans, perfect for special occasions or festive gatherings, offering sweet, chewy, and crunchy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs until foamy.
- Fold in sugar, cubed dates, candied pineapple, candied cherries, sifted flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add pecan meats by hand.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider substituting some of the pecans with walnuts or almonds. You can also use dried figs or apricots in place of dates for a different flavor profile. Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation. If you want a sweeter cake, increase the sugar slightly. Remember to sift the flour to ensure a lighter texture in your cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Ada's Incredible (Nut) Fruit Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Quick Nut Rolls as part of a dessert platter during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a month. To reheat, slice the cake and warm it gently in the oven at a low temperature or microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ada'S Incredible (Nut) Fruit Cake contains roughly 2683 calories, with 44g protein, 273g carbohydrates, and 172g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (118% of the Daily Value), protein (89% of the Daily Value), and iron (85% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1193mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of nuts in this cake?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional for this recipe, you can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a unique twist. Just be sure to chop them roughly to maintain a good texture in the cake.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free to ensure the entire cake is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I enhance the flavor of the fruit cake?
To enhance the flavors, consider soaking the dried fruits in orange juice or rum for a few hours before adding them to the batter. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to complement the sweetness of the candied fruits and nuts.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).