Grape Jelly Fruit Cake
A rich, fruity cake infused with grape jelly, spices, and dried fruits, ideal for festive occasions and loved by those who enjoy sweet, spiced baked treats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter or shortening
- 1 cup sugar ⓘ
- 6 eggs ⓘ
- 1/2 glass grape jelly ⓘ
- 1 cup wine or 1 apple (optional)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg ⓘ
- 2 1/2 cups flour ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons vanilla ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons melted Charlotte ⓘ
- 1/2 cup citron
- 2 1/2 pounds raisins
- 1/2 pound Crysdale cherry
- 1/2 pound crystal pineapple ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon orange peel ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons orange paste ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix shortening and sugar well, then add eggs one at a time, followed by grape jelly.
- Add cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, melted Charlotte, and orange paste, then sift in flour and baking powder.
- Roll the dried fruits in 1/2 cup flour to coat, then add to the batter alternately with vanilla, 1 cup at a time, mixing well.
- Pour the batter into a prepared baking pan.
- Bake slowly for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- When the cake is done, pour wine over the hot cake.
- Let the cake cool, then place in a container.
- Cut a raw apple on top, add spoonfuls of wine over it, and seal tightly.
- Store the cake for two to three weeks before Christmas, allowing flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a spicier cake, increase the cinnamon and nutmeg slightly. Make sure to roll the dried fruits in flour to prevent them from sinking in the batter. Also, if you don't have grape jelly, any fruit preserves can work as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the cake accompanied by whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Waurine'S Frozen Pineapple Salad for a refreshing contrast. This cake also makes a festive addition to holiday gatherings and can be enjoyed alongside a cup of spiced tea or coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature. This cake improves with time, so allow it to sit for a couple of weeks before slicing. If you need to reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, ensuring they remain moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grape Jelly Fruit Cake contains roughly 378 calories, with 3g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (13% 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 fresh fruit instead of dried?
While fresh fruit can add moisture, it may alter the texture of the cake. Dried fruits like raisins and cherries provide a concentrated flavor and are less likely to affect the cake's structure. If you want to experiment, consider adding a small amount of fresh fruit but reduce the total amount of dried fruit accordingly.
Is it necessary to let the cake sit for weeks?
Letting the cake sit allows the flavors to meld, creating a richer taste. However, if you’re short on time, you can enjoy it sooner. Just keep in mind that it will taste best after a few weeks. When stored properly, it can develop a deeper flavor profile that enhances the overall enjoyment of the cake.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and let it come to room temperature before slicing.
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).