Mardi Gras Fruit Cake
A moist, flavorful fruit cake featuring candied cherries, pineapple, nuts, and a rich cream cheese base, perfect for celebrations or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Stir in vanilla; add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, mix 2 1/2 cups flour and baking powder.
- Toss chopped candied cherries, chopped candied pineapple, and nuts with 1/4 cup flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Gently fold in the coated candied fruit and nuts.
- Spoon the batter into a greased bundt pan or two greased loaf pans.
- Bake at 325°F for 60 to 80 minutes, testing for doneness after 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, beat the butter and cream cheese until very fluffy. You can substitute the candied fruit with dried fruit, like raisins or apricots, for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds. Don't rush the mixing process; it helps the cake rise better. This cake pairs beautifully with Chocolate-Nut Devil'S Food Cake for dessert options.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Mardi Gras Fruit Cake and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It also goes well with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, decorate the slices with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze. This cake makes an excellent dessert alongside Ma'S Potato Salad for a unique meal pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mardi Gras Fruit Cake contains roughly 492 calories, with 7g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% 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 candied fruit?
While you can use fresh fruit, it may alter the moisture content and texture of the cake. If you choose to use fresh fruit, consider reducing other liquid ingredients slightly and adjusting baking time to ensure the cake cooks through without becoming soggy.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the cake is done. Start checking at the 60-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The Mardi Gras Fruit Cake can be made up to a week in advance. Just ensure it is stored properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness. You can also freeze it for longer storage, making it a great option for holiday or special occasion baking.
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).