Farmer'S Cheap Fruit Cake
A hearty, flavorful fruit cake featuring tender apples, warm spices, and sweet raisins, perfect for cozy gatherings or afternoon tea. Budget-friendly and easy to make.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer chopped apples and molasses for 2 hours, or less if using applesauce. Let cool.
- Add spices and soda to the sifted flour and beat well.
- Gradually add milk, adjusting the amount based on the apple mixture's consistency, and beat the batter.
- Fold in raisins gently into the batter.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf or tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, which can complement the fruitiness. If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can reduce the molasses and add a bit of brown sugar. Ensure the apples are well-cooked before mixing; this enhances their sweetness. If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the Farmer's Cheap Fruit Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. This cake can be enjoyed on its own or alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Farmer'S Cheap Fruit Cake contains roughly 732 calories, with 12g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (58% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 14g 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 fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears or chopped peaches, but keep in mind that the moisture content may vary. Adjust the applesauce accordingly to maintain the right consistency in the batter. Experimenting with different fruits can yield delicious variations!
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you choose contains xanthan gum for better texture. Additionally, check that all other ingredients, like baking soda and spices, are gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
How can I make the cake more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or rum to the batter. You could also mix in some citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, which will brighten the overall taste of the cake. Spices like ginger or cardamom can also add a unique twist!
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).