Gumdrop Cake
A rich and fruity cake combining the sweetness of gumdrops, raisins, and nuts with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Its moist texture and colorful mix make it a delightful treat suitable for festive occasions or casual gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy nostalgic, flavorful baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined and set aside.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
- Stir the gumdrops, raisins, and chopped nuts into the dry flour mixture.
- Add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with applesauce, beating well after each addition.
- Pour the batter into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan lined with triple layers of waxed paper.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center tests done.
- Let the cake set in the pan for 30 minutes, then cool thoroughly.
- Wrap in foil and store.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half the butter with unsweetened applesauce. If you can't find gumdrops, chopped dried fruit or even chocolate chips can be a delightful alternative. Ensure the gumdrops are cut small enough to distribute evenly throughout the cake. This recipe can also be adjusted to fit a bundt pan; just increase the baking time slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This gumdrop cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. For a festive touch, serve it alongside coffee or tea during gatherings. Consider adding a side of fresh fruit to balance the sweetness, making it a perfect treat for parties or holiday celebrations. Browse more American recipes to complement your dessert menu.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cake tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cake, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. Reheating is not necessary, but if desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gumdrop Cake contains roughly 1068 calories, with 12g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 763mg per serving (33% 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 other types of fruit instead of raisins in this cake?
Yes, you can substitute white raisins with any dried fruit you prefer, such as cranberries or chopped apricots. Just ensure the fruit is chopped into small pieces to blend well with the other ingredients and maintain the cake's texture.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking and check every 5 minutes until done.
Can I freeze gumdrop cake for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and enjoy the flavors just as fresh!
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).