Grandma Ruby'S Mystery Fruit Cake(Freezes Well)
A rich, fruity Christmas fruitcake packed with candied fruits, nuts, and festive flavors, perfect for holiday celebrations and gift-giving.
Ingredients
- 1 spice cake mix and all ingredients called for on box ⓘ
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (smooth) ⓘ
- 4 cups candied fruit or 2 lb.
- 1/3 pound orange slices (jelly candy), chopped ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups raisins (2/3 lb.) ⓘ
- 1 cup dates, chopped (1/2 lb.) ⓘ
- 4 1/2 cups pecan halves (1 lb.) ⓘ
- 1 Betty Crocker fluffy frosting mix (cherry or white) and all ingredients called for on box ⓘ
- 1/2 cup red maraschino cherries (for decoration only)
- 1/2 cup green maraschino cherries (for decoration only)
Instructions
- Save out about 1/2 cup of candied fruit, chopped orange slices, and maraschino cherries for decoration.
- Prepare the spice cake mix according to the package instructions and bake it in a suitable pan; let it cool completely.
- Mix the peanut butter into the cooled cake, breaking the cake into small pieces to evenly distribute the peanut butter.
- Add the candied fruit, chopped orange slices, raisins, chopped dates, and pecan halves to the cake mixture.
- Prepare the frosting mix according to the package instructions.
- Spread a layer of frosting over the cake mixture, or frost the entire cake once assembled.
- Decorate with the reserved candied fruit, maraschino cherries, and any additional decorations as desired.
- Allow the cake to set and chill as needed before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Grandma Ruby's Mystery Fruit Cake, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the peanut butter mixture. If you don't have candied fruit, you can substitute with a mix of dried fruits like apricots and cranberries. For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans and use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma Ruby's Mystery Fruit Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a great dessert for gatherings or casual afternoons. For a unique twist, try serving it alongside a slice of 'Granny's' Sweet Potato Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight, then let it sit at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Ruby'S Mystery Fruit Cake(Freezes Well) contains roughly 546 calories, with 10g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 763mg per serving (33% 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 a different cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the spice cake mix with a vanilla or chocolate cake mix if you prefer. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious with the added fruits and nuts.
How can I make this cake healthier?
To make Grandma Ruby's Mystery Fruit Cake healthier, you can use a whole grain or low-sugar cake mix. Additionally, consider reducing the amount of peanut butter or using a natural sweetener in the frosting to cut down on sugar without sacrificing flavor.
What can I use instead of maraschino cherries for decoration?
If you prefer not to use maraschino cherries, fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries can be a great alternative for decoration. They add a fresh touch and vibrant color to the cake while complementing the sweetness of the other ingredients.
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).