North Dakota Fruit Cake
A rich, nutty fruit cake featuring dates, nuts, and cherries, perfect for festive occasions or as a hearty dessert for those who enjoy dense, flavorful baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Divide the mixture evenly into 2 well-greased and floured bread pans.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 1/2 hours until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can substitute the nuts based on your preference, such as using almonds or hazelnuts. If you prefer a less dense cake, add an extra egg or use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. Mixing the batter by hand helps maintain the fruit's integrity.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of North Dakota Fruit Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Sauteed Apple Rings as a side dish. For a cozy gathering, enjoy it alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three weeks. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven at 300°F (149°C) for about 10 minutes, or enjoy it cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of North Dakota Fruit Cake contains roughly 604 calories, with 9g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 854mg per serving (37% 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 dried fruits instead of fresh cherries?
Yes, you can substitute dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for the cherries. Just ensure to chop them into smaller pieces to maintain the texture of the cake. Adjust the sugar slightly if the dried fruits are particularly sweet.
How do I know when the fruit cake is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean when it's done. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges to prevent over-browning.
Can I freeze the fruit cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled fruit cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.
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).