Nellie'S Fruitcake
Nellie's Fruitcake is a rich, dense treat packed with candied cherries, dates, nuts, and a hint of orange, perfect for festive occasions and special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir all dry ingredients in a large bowl.
- Add the candied cherries, pitted dates, nuts, orange juice concentrate, eggs, and vanilla.
- Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Line loaf pans with brown paper or parchment paper (use two small pans or one large pan).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pans.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (149°C) and bake for approximately 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before wrapping.
- Wrap in cheesecloth or soft cloth saturated with fruit brandy and store.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter fruitcake, consider reducing the sugar by half or substituting with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. If you can't find whole Brazil nuts, chopped walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes. Ensure all fruits and nuts are evenly distributed in the batter to avoid sinking. For added flavor, soak the fruits in fruit brandy overnight before mixing.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the fruitcake into thick pieces for serving. It pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it a perfect accompaniment for afternoon gatherings. Consider serving it alongside a cheese platter for a delightful contrast. For an extra touch, drizzle with a light citrus glaze or serve with whipped cream for a festive treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store the wrapped fruitcake in a cool, dry place for optimal freshness. To keep it moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in an airtight container. If stored properly, it can last for several weeks. Avoid refrigerating, as this can dry it out; instead, keep it at room temperature and revive it with a splash of fruit brandy if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nellie'S Fruitcake contains roughly 439 calories, with 6g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 744mg per serving (32% 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 different types of nuts in this fruitcake?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Brazil nuts and pecans, feel free to substitute them with your favorites like walnuts or hazelnuts. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but experimenting with different nuts can add a unique twist to your fruitcake.
How long does this fruitcake last?
When stored properly, this fruitcake can last several weeks at room temperature. For long-term storage, it can be frozen for up to six months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.
Can I make this fruitcake ahead of time?
Yes, making this fruitcake ahead of time is a great idea! In fact, it often tastes better after a few days as the flavors meld together. You can bake it up to a month in advance. Just ensure it's well-wrapped in cheesecloth soaked in fruit brandy and stored in a cool place until you're ready to serve.
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).