Economy Fruit Cake
A rich, spiced fruit cake featuring raisins and warm seasonings, perfect for holidays or teatime gatherings, offering a moist texture and fragrant flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water, raisins, and fruit to a boil and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add sugar, shortening, and spices to the mixture.
- Cool the mixture overnight before using.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister cake, consider adding a cup of chopped nuts or dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, which can enhance flavor and texture. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter works well as a substitute in equal amounts. To intensify the spices, try toasting them lightly before adding them to the mixture. This Economy Fruit Cake can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This Economy Fruit Cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing for added sweetness. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a warm beverage like spiced cider. It pairs beautifully with Hungarian Crepes(Palacsinta) for a festive brunch or dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, allow it to thaw at room temperature and warm gently in the oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes, keeping it covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Economy Fruit Cake contains roughly 1481 calories, with 21g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (63% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 966mg per serving (42% 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 fresh fruits instead of raisins?
While raisins are traditional for this recipe, you can substitute them with fresh fruits like diced apples or pears. However, keep in mind that fresh fruits have a higher moisture content, so you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly to prevent the cake from becoming too wet.
Is it necessary to cool the mixture overnight?
Cooling the mixture overnight is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and develop deeper taste profiles. If you're short on time, you can cool it for at least a few hours, but the cake's texture and flavor will be best if you allow it to rest overnight.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this Economy Fruit Cake gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to maintain the cake's structure. The taste and texture will still be delicious while accommodating dietary needs.
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).