Japanese Fruit Cake(This Recipe Makes Six Thin Layers!)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Japanese

Delicate Japanese Fruit Cake features multiple thin layers infused with raisins and nuts, blending warm spices for a delightful treat suitable for celebrations or tea times.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3 cups flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 cup chopped mixed nuts
  • 1 teaspoon cloves
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Cream butter and sugar together.
  2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Add milk, flour, and baking powder to the mixture.
  4. Set aside half of the batter.
  5. Pour the remaining batter into three 8 or 9-inch round pans and bake at 350°F for approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
  6. Watch the oven as baking times may vary.
  7. Mix raisins, chopped nuts, cloves, and cinnamon into the set-aside batter.
  8. Divide this batter into three layers and bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes, similar to the other layers.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with sugar. You can substitute half the butter with applesauce for a healthier version. Adding a splash of vanilla extract can enhance flavor. If you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the nuts, and consider using dried fruit like cranberries or apricots instead of raisins for a twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Japanese Fruit Cake pairs beautifully with a cup of green tea or matcha for a delightful afternoon treat. Consider serving it with fresh fruit or whipped cream on the side for an added touch. It also makes a lovely centerpiece for gatherings, alongside other desserts like Dutch Butter Cookies or Melt-In-Your-Mouth Nut Strudel.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Japanese Fruit Cake(This Recipe Makes Six Thin Layers!) contains roughly 1117 calories, with 20g protein, 212g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (73% of the Daily Value), iron (69% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1000mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).

1117 kcal 56% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.9g 40% DV
Total Fat 27.9g 36% DV
Carbs 212.2g 77% DV
Fiber 17.1g 61% DV
Sugar 28.6g 57% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 999.9mg 43% DV
Potassium 1345.3mg 29% DV
Cholesterol 316.2mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 154mcg 17% DV
Vitamin C 21.4mg 24% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 3% DV
Calcium 944.8mg 73% DV
Iron 12.4mg 69% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Just ensure that you adjust the liquid if necessary, as different flours absorb moisture differently.

What can I use instead of raisins?

You can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like chopped apricots, cranberries, or dates. Each will give a different flavor profile, bringing a unique twist to your cake.

How can I make this cake more festive?

To make this cake more festive, consider adding a layer of frosting between the cake layers. A light cream cheese frosting or whipped cream with citrus zest can complement the flavors beautifully. Decorate with seasonal fruits or edible flowers for an elegant touch.

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).

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