Gum Drop Cake
A moist, spiced fruit cake loaded with dates, nuts, and gumdrops, perfect for festive occasions or as a rich dessert for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the soda in the applesauce.
- Mix all ingredients in the order listed in the recipe.
- Add dates and brazil nuts as near whole as possible.
- Line loaf pans with wax paper.
- Pour the batter into the bottom of each pan and drop the gumdrops on top, ensuring they do not touch the pan.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F (about 45 minutes).
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of orange zest to the batter. If you’re short on time, you can substitute the shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter. For a twist, try using dried cranberries instead of raisins. Remember, the gumdrops should be evenly distributed to avoid sinking during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gum drop cake as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack with coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider serving it alongside a light fruit salad or cheese platter for a balanced meal. For a unique twist, try it with a slice of No-Crust Cheese Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the gum drop cake to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist, and place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gum Drop Cake contains roughly 1736 calories, with 18g protein, 260g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (140% of the Daily Value), iron (52% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 39g 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 other nuts instead of Brazil nuts?
Absolutely! You can substitute Brazil nuts with walnuts, pecans, or even macadamia nuts for a different flavor and texture. Just be sure to chop them roughly to match the size of the other ingredients.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum to help with the cake's structure. Also, check that all other ingredients, like baking soda, are gluten-free.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, you can add a little more applesauce, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much, as it may alter the cake's 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).