Franklin Nut Cake(Aunt Ethel Miller'S Traditional Christmas Cake)
A rich, traditional Christmas cake packed with nuts, candied cherries, and pineapple, perfect for festive celebrations and sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Pour the batter into a tube cake pan.
- Bake at 250°F for 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, consider using half the amount of butter and substituting with unsweetened applesauce. You can also replace the candied fruits with dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a healthier twist. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. If you prefer a bit of spice, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and flavorful cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It can also be served alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee. For a festive touch, drizzle some caramel sauce and apples on the side, making it a perfect dessert for holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Franklin Nut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a month. To serve, let the cake come to room temperature or warm it gently in the oven at 250°F for about 10 minutes for a delightful taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Franklin Nut Cake(Aunt Ethel Miller'S Traditional Christmas Cake) contains roughly 1154 calories, with 19g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), iron (62% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 999mg per serving (43% 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 different types of nuts in this cake?
Absolutely! You can customize the nut selection based on your preferences. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans work beautifully in this recipe. Just ensure that the total quantity remains approximately one quart for the best texture and flavor balance.
Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead. Once baked and cooled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served after a few days.
How can I make this cake less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, you can lower the sugar to 1.5 cups and increase the salt slightly to enhance flavor. Alternatively, using less candied fruit and more nuts can create a more balanced sweetness. Just keep in mind the overall texture and moisture of the cake.
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).