Famous Wesson Fruit Cake
Delightful, moist fruit cake bursting with cinnamon, cloves, raisins, and a hint of citrus—perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 275°.
- Line two 9×5×3‑inch pans with lightly greased wax paper.
- Combine Wesson oil, brown sugar, and eggs in a bowl.
- Beat the mixture for 2 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup flour with mixed fruits and nuts.
- Sift the remaining flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice into the fruit mixture.
- Beat the eggs, sugar, and oil again until well blended.
- Add the flour mixture to the oil mixture, alternating with orange juice; mix until combined.
- Pour the batter over the fruit mixture and blend well.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared pans.
- Place a pan of water on the lower rack of the oven to create steam.
- Bake for 2½ to 3 hours, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes on wire racks.
- Remove the cakes from the pans and lift the wax paper away.
- Wrap the cakes in a damp cloth with brandy, fruit juice, or wine, then cover with foil for storage.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, consider using half the amount of oil and replacing it with unsweetened applesauce. If you don't have mixed fruits, you can substitute with dried cranberries, apricots, or cherries. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this rich fruit cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Orange Juice-Lious for a refreshing beverage option. Consider adding a side of spiced nuts to enhance the flavors and provide a crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Once the cakes have cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the wrapped cakes for up to three months. If desired, allow to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Famous Wesson Fruit Cake contains roughly 3423 calories, with 57g protein, 565g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (148% of the Daily Value), protein (113% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (109% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2335mg per serving (102% 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 a different type of oil instead of Wesson oil?
Yes, you can substitute Wesson oil with another neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. However, using oils with a stronger flavor, like olive oil, may alter the taste of the cake. Stick to lighter oils for the best result.
How can I make this fruit cake more festive?
To enhance the festive feel, consider adding candied citrus peel or a splash of rum or bourbon to the batter. You can also top the cake with a glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice for extra sweetness and a beautiful finish.
Is it necessary to soak the fruits before adding them to the batter?
Soaking the mixed fruits in warm water or alcohol for a few hours can plump them up and enhance their flavors. However, it is not necessary; you can add them directly into the batter for a denser texture and more pronounced fruit flavor.
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).