Fiddlehead Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min

A moist and flavorful cake featuring fiddleheads, nuts, raisins, and dates, perfect for those seeking a unique, nutty dessert with a hint of earthiness and sweetness.

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Ingredients

  • 3 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon soda
  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 cups chopped fiddleheads
  • 1 cup nuts

Instructions

  1. Mix the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla.
  2. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
  3. Pour the batter into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
  4. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 45 minutes, or until cooked through.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter cake, consider substituting half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. If fiddleheads are unavailable, you can use chopped spinach or kale for a different yet delicious flavor. Make sure to wash fiddleheads thoroughly to remove any dirt. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the cake's flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This fiddlehead cake is delightful on its own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. Pair it with a fresh fruit salad or serve alongside Mike'S Snack for a complete dessert experience. It's perfect for spring gatherings or as a unique addition to a brunch spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fiddlehead Cake contains roughly 1438 calories, with 23g protein, 174g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 492mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

1438 kcal 72% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 22.8g 46% DV
Total Fat 75.2g 96% DV
Carbs 174g 63% DV
Fiber 5.9g 21% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 491.6mg 21% DV
Potassium 1140.5mg 24% DV
Cholesterol 1.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.6mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 21.8mg 24% DV
Calcium 351mg 27% DV
Iron 7.9mg 44% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 frozen fiddleheads for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen fiddleheads. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the batter. This will help maintain the cake's texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.

What can I substitute for nuts in this recipe?

If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use nuts, you can substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch. Alternatively, you can omit them entirely for a nut-free version and still enjoy a delicious cake.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to ensure proper texture. The cake will still be moist and flavorful with this adaptation.

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).

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