Amber Pettit'S Fruit Cake
A rich fruit cake with nuts and candied cherries, flavored with brandy and vanilla, perfect for festive occasions or as a decadent treat with tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put nuts and fruit in a bowl.
- Add dry ingredients and mix together.
- Add beaten egg yolks, brandy, and vanilla flavoring.
- Beat egg whites until stiff, then fold into the mixture.
- Pour batter into two loaf pans.
- Bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Amber Pettit's Fruit Cake, consider using freshly chopped nuts instead of pre-packaged ones for a more robust taste. If desired, substitute brandy flavoring with orange juice for a fruity twist. Ensure the flour is well-sifted to avoid clumping. For a richer texture, try adding a splash of milk to the batter before folding in the egg whites.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the fruit cake and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Chocolate-Coated Cherry Surprise(Candy) for a delightful dessert spread. Consider serving alongside a cup of spiced tea or coffee to complement the cake's flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate, where it can last for up to a month. To enjoy it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a toaster oven until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Amber Pettit'S Fruit Cake contains roughly 594 calories, with 5g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1494mg per serving (65% 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 fruit cake?
Absolutely! While hazelnuts and walnuts are traditional, feel free to experiment with other nuts such as pecans or almonds. Just keep the total quantity similar to avoid altering the cake's texture.
How can I make this cake more festive for the holidays?
To give your fruit cake a festive touch, consider adding cranberries or dried apricots along with the dates. You could also drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and water over the cooled cake for a decorative finish.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the other ingredients, especially the baking soda and any flavorings, are also gluten-free to ensure the entire cake is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).