Gladys Clark'S Fruit Cake(This Fruit Cake Contains No Citrus Fruit.)
A rich, fruit-filled cake featuring a variety of dried and candied fruits, nuts, and coconut, perfect for special occasions or holiday celebrations, with a moist, flavorful bite.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 c. self-rising flour ⓘ
- 1 c. sugar ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/2 c. butter or margarine ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. ReaLemon juice ⓘ
- 2 c. water ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. raisins ⓘ
- 4 oz. chopped dried fruit ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. chopped nuts ⓘ
- 8 oz. chopped dates ⓘ
- 8 oz. candied cherries
- 8 oz. candied pineapple wedges
- 2 c. shredded coconut ⓘ
- 4 eggs
- 1 1/4 tsp. vanilla ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. rum extract ⓘ
Instructions
- Sift together the self-rising flour, sugar, and salt.
- Cream in the butter or margarine and ReaLemon juice.
- Bring 2 cups water to a boil.
- Add the raisins and chopped dried fruit; bring to a boil again.
- Pour off water, drain fruit on paper towel, and set aside.
- Mix the nuts, dates, cherries, and pineapple wedges in a large bowl.
- Add the dry ingredients to the fruit and nut mixture; mix lightly until well coated.
- Add shredded coconut, if desired.
- Add eggs, vanilla, and rum extract; mix well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a splash of your favorite liquor to the batter. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds. You can also use a mix of your favorite dried fruits instead of the specified varieties for a personalized touch.
Serving Suggestions
This moist and flavorful fruit cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings or celebrations. You can serve it plain, or with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. Consider serving alongside the Rag Doll Tea Party for a delightful experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the fruit cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate, where it can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let it come to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gladys Clark'S Fruit Cake(This Fruit Cake Contains No Citrus Fruit.) contains roughly 1726 calories, with 24g protein, 214g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and iron (51% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 15g 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 fresh fruits instead of dried fruits in this recipe?
Fresh fruits have a higher water content and can affect the cake's texture. It's best to stick with dried fruits for this recipe to ensure the right consistency and flavor balance. If you want to experiment, consider using freeze-dried fruits for a similar texture.
How can I make this fruit cake more festive?
To make the fruit cake more festive, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Additionally, consider decorating the top with extra candied fruits or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Is this fruit cake suitable for gifting?
Absolutely! This fruit cake makes a wonderful gift, especially during the holiday season. Wrap it in decorative foil or place it in a pretty cake box to enhance its presentation. It's a thoughtful treat that friends and family will appreciate.
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).