Grandma'S Holiday Cake
A rich, fruit-filled holiday cake featuring raisins, figs, walnuts, and warm spices, perfect for festive gatherings and sweet celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop raisins and figs or dates.
- Pour boiling water, in which the soda has been dissolved, over the fruit.
- Cream butter and sugar.
- Add beaten egg yolks, then the spices and fruit mixture, then fold in the flour.
- Fold in the beaten egg white.
- Add vanilla and nuts.
- Bake in a loaf pan at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version. If you prefer a sweeter cake, add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar. Make sure to soak the fruit in boiling water long enough to soften, enhancing the overall moisture and flavor of the cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Grandma's Holiday Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a wonderful addition to holiday gatherings or afternoon tea. For a festive touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes to maintain its moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Holiday Cake contains roughly 1408 calories, with 40g protein, 239g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (186% of the Daily Value), calcium (139% of the Daily Value), and iron (138% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1129mg per serving (49% 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 dried fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can be used as substitutes for raisins and figs. Just make sure to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure even distribution in the batter.
Is it necessary to soak the fruit?
Soaking the fruit in boiling water is crucial as it softens the fruits and allows them to infuse moisture into the cake. This step helps to enhance the flavor and texture, making the cake more enjoyable.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better after a day or two as the flavors meld together. You can bake it in advance and store it as mentioned earlier. Just remember to let it cool completely before wrapping it for storage.
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).