Grandmother'S Boiled Fruit Cake
A nostalgic and moist fruit cake featuring raisins and warm spices, perfect for teatime or festive occasions, with a rich, fruity flavor and tender crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add sugar, raisins, and shortening to hot water and boil for 3 minutes.
- Allow the mixture to cool, then add baking soda, mixed spices, and flour.
- Mix until smooth to form a batter.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake in a hot oven for about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for the lard. If you prefer a different sweetness, try using brown sugar instead of white sugar. To enhance the spices, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. Ensure your water is hot enough to help dissolve the sugar and melt the shortening effectively. Mixing the batter thoroughly will yield a smoother texture, making the cake more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Grandmother's Boiled Fruit Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of fresh fruit jams for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with tea or coffee, making it an ideal afternoon snack. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of cheese for a savory contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep it for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two weeks. To reheat, slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature. This cake also tastes delightful when paired with a cup of tea.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother'S Boiled Fruit Cake contains roughly 606 calories, with 9g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 dried fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like currants, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots. Each fruit will impart its unique flavor to the cake, making it a versatile recipe. Just ensure the total amount remains one cup to maintain the cake's balance.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
A good way to check if the cake is done is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
Can I freeze the boiled fruit cake?
Yes, you can freeze the boiled fruit cake! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).