Grandma Sawyer'S Old Time Fruitcake
A hearty, nostalgic fruitcake packed with candied pineapple, cherries, nuts, and fragrant spices, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions enjoyed by family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cocoa, and allspice.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing thoroughly.
- Stir in fig preserves and grated orange peel.
- Add the candied pineapple, cherries, raisins, coconut, chopped pecans, and walnuts, mixing everything together thoroughly with your hands.
- Pour the batter into a greased tube pan.
- Bake in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, or add a splash of brandy to the batter. If you don’t have allspice, a combination of cinnamon and nutmeg can work as a substitute. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. To enhance the texture, try adding a handful of chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries, similar to ingredients in Mary'S Pumpkin Apple Bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Grandma Sawyer's Old Time Fruitcake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it a perfect dessert for afternoon gatherings. You can also enjoy it alongside savory snacks like Cheese And Olive Canape(Appetizer) for a balanced spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruitcake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then refrigerate for up to three months. To reheat, slice individual pieces and warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a toaster oven until just heated through, which keeps the texture moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Sawyer'S Old Time Fruitcake contains roughly 1163 calories, with 13g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), and calcium (55% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 27g 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 different nuts in this fruitcake recipe?
Yes, you can substitute any nuts you prefer or have on hand, such as almonds or hazelnuts. Just ensure they are chopped and roasted for added flavor and crunch. Keep in mind that different nuts may slightly alter the taste and texture of the cake.
How do I know when the fruitcake is done baking?
The fruitcake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Baking at 300°F may take longer than other recipes, so keep an eye on it during the last 30 minutes to avoid over-baking.
Can I freeze the fruitcake?
Absolutely! This fruitcake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best flavor and texture.
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).