Friendship Cake And Starter
A delightful fermented fruit starter with sweet pineapple, cherries, and peaches infused with brandy, perfect for sharing and adding fruity flavor to desserts or drinks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large gallon jar, combine the cubed pineapple, 1 cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons brandy.
- Let sit in the jar for 2 weeks, stirring daily.
- After 2 weeks, add the maraschino cherries with juice, 1 cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons brandy.
- Let sit for another 2 weeks, stirring daily.
- During the fourth week, add canned peaches, 1 cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons brandy.
- Let stand for another 2 weeks, stirring daily.
- Separate the liquid from the fruit.
- The liquid is the starter.
- Use the fruit on ice cream or cake.
- Do not refrigerate the liquid.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more complex flavor, consider adding diced fresh strawberries or blueberries along with the fruits. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the brandy with apple juice or omit it entirely. Stir the mixture gently to avoid breaking the fruit pieces. Remember to use a clean spoon to prevent contamination during the fermentation process.
Serving Suggestions
This Friendship Cake starter pairs beautifully with ice cream or can be used as a topping for cakes. Serve it over pound cake for a delightful dessert. For a refreshing twist, try it with yogurt or on waffles. It can also complement savory dishes like Oriental Grilled Cornish Hens, adding a sweet contrast to the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the starter liquid in a cool, dark place, ideally in a glass jar with a tight lid. It can last for several weeks if kept away from direct sunlight. Avoid refrigeration, as it can slow down the fermentation process. If you have leftover fruit, serve it fresh or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Friendship Cake And Starter contains roughly 263 calories, with 2g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g 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
How long does the starter last?
The Friendship Cake starter can last up to a month if stored properly in a cool, dark place. However, for the best flavor, it's recommended to use it within two weeks after it has been separated from the fruit.
Can I substitute the fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix and match different fruits according to your preference. Consider using diced pears, apricots, or even berries. Just be sure to keep the same volume of fruit to maintain the balance of flavors.
What do I do with the leftover fruit?
The leftover fruit from the starter can be used as a delicious topping for desserts like ice cream or cake. You can also incorporate it into yogurt parfaits or fruit salads for a refreshing treat.
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).