Gumdrop Cake(Good To Mail. Good At Christmas.)
A rich, fruit-filled cake featuring raisins, gumdrops, and warm spices, perfect for holiday gatherings and gifting during Christmas season.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the dry ingredients: flour, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
- Dredge the raisins, gumdrops, and pecans in some of the dry mixture.
- Use scissors to cut the raisins and gumdrops into smaller pieces.
- Cream the butter or shortening with the sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the well-beaten eggs to the creamed mixture and blend well.
- Alternately add portions of the dry ingredients and applesauce to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Dissolve the soda in hot water and stir into the batter along with vanilla extract.
- Fold in the gumdrops, raisins, and chopped pecans.
- Line 2 or 3 loaf pans with parchment paper and pour the batter into them.
- Bake in a very slow oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 2 hours, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of dried fruits or nuts based on your preference. If you're short on time, store-bought gumdrops can be used, but cutting them into smaller pieces makes for a better texture. A splash of orange juice in the batter can brighten the flavors. Make sure to use fresh spices for the best aroma and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the gumdrop cake and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with Sour Cream Velvet Frosting for an extra indulgence. This cake is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful gift during Christmas celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Cool the cake completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To refresh slices, gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold with a cup of tea.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gumdrop Cake(Good To Mail. Good At Christmas.) contains roughly 2730 calories, with 34g protein, 414g carbohydrates, and 96g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (219% of the Daily Value), iron (90% of the Daily Value), and protein (68% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1090mg per serving (47% 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 a different type of fruit instead of raisins?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with dried cranberries or chopped apricots for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the fruit is chopped into small pieces to maintain the cake's texture. Experimenting with different dried fruits can also add an interesting twist to the cake.
Is it necessary to use parchment paper in the loaf pans?
While it's not strictly necessary, lining the pans with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the cake without sticking. This step can also help ensure even baking and prevent the cake from browning too much on the bottom.
How can I make this cake healthier?
You can make the gumdrop cake healthier by substituting half of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour can also add fiber. Additionally, consider using a low-fat butter substitute for a lighter version.
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).