Candied Fruit For Fruit Cakes
Sweet, candied fruit combines pineapple, cherries, raisins, and sugar, creating a delightful addition for fruit cakes. Perfect for holiday baking or festive treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy skillet, place pineapple and cherries.
- Add sugar and reserved pineapple juice.
- Add raisins.
- Cook over low heat for 45 minutes, turning and stirring often.
- Remove from heat.
- Let stand in syrup overnight.
- Place fruit in a single layer on a cake rack to dry for a day.
- Turn over and let the fruit dry a second day.
- Cut up the dried fruit with kitchen shears.
- Store in a plastic container.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your candied fruit, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon during cooking. If you don't have maraschino cherries, you can substitute with dried cherries or cranberries for a different taste. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the sugar from burning, and keep the heat low for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These candied fruits are perfect for adding to holiday fruit cakes or can be enjoyed as a sweet snack on their own. They pair beautifully with Pan De Sal (Crispy Dinner Rolls From The Philippines) for a delightful contrast in textures. Consider using them as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal for a sweet breakfast treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store the dried candied fruit in an airtight plastic container at room temperature. It can last for several months if kept dry and away from moisture. If you want to reuse it, simply soak it in warm water for a few minutes to rehydrate before adding to your recipes, such as in a batch of Whole Green Pea Soup.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Fruit For Fruit Cakes contains roughly 943 calories, with 1g protein, 243g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh fruit instead of canned for this recipe?
While you can use fresh fruit, keep in mind that canned fruit is already sweet and has a softer texture, which makes it ideal for candying. If using fresh, ensure that the fruit is ripe and adjust the sugar quantity according to your taste preference.
How long will the candied fruit last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the candied fruit can last for up to six months. However, for the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to use them within three months. Always check for any signs of moisture or spoilage before using.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Ensure that any substitutes, such as sugar, are vegan-friendly. You can enhance the flavor further with spices or citrus zest, making it a versatile option for various dietary preferences.
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).