Chinese Fruit Cake
A rich, chewy Chinese Fruit Cake packed with candied cherries, dates, nuts, and coconut, perfect for festive occasions and loved by those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Grease a 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan or loaf pans.
- Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- Pack the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or 1 hour and 15 minutes if using loaf pans.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider folding in some whipped egg whites before baking. If you can't find candied cherries, dried fruit can be used as a substitution, though the flavor will be different. Ensure to chop ingredients uniformly for even baking. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, pairing well with Chinese recipes, like Chinese Coffee Cake, for dessert spreads.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake as a delightful dessert alongside tea or coffee. It also pairs nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a festive touch, garnish with additional chopped nuts or a drizzle of chocolate. It can be a great addition to a potluck where it complements savory dishes like Guamanian Fried Rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it can last for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply slice and heat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Fruit Cake contains roughly 1802 calories, with 26g protein, 206g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (76% of the Daily Value), iron (67% of the Daily Value), and protein (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. It also contributes 21g 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 other types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the pecans and walnuts with your favorite nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them to a similar size as the recipe calls for to ensure even distribution throughout the cake.
What can I use in place of Eagle Brand milk?
If you're looking for a non-dairy option, you can use coconut milk or almond milk combined with a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness and consistency of Eagle Brand milk. This will slightly alter the flavor but still yield a delicious result.
How can I tell when the fruit cake is done baking?
The cake is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep in mind that baking times may vary based on your oven and the pan type, so always check a bit earlier than the recommended time.
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).