Old Time Fruit Cake
Old Time Fruit Cake is a rich, spiced layered cake featuring warm flavors like cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, complemented by the sweetness of molasses. Ideal for festive occasions or cozy gatherings, it offers a nostalgic taste with layers of apple or apple butter between. Perfect for those who love traditional baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the melted margarine, molasses, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, ginger, buttermilk, and eggs.
- Add enough flour to the mixture to make a stiff dough.
- Roll out the dough to create one layer at a time.
- Cut out circles using a pie pan.
- Put each layer in a greased pan and bake until done.
- Repeat to make 5 layers.
- Put cooked apples or apple butter between the layers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you want to add a twist, chopped nuts or dried fruits can enhance the texture and taste. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Make sure to roll the dough evenly for uniform layers, which helps in even baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fruit cake layers with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with cooked apples or apple butter between layers for added moisture and sweetness. This dish can also complement a cup of tea or coffee, making it ideal for gatherings and festive occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover layers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them, which can extend freshness for a week. When reheating, place the layers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain some crispness without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Time Fruit Cake contains roughly 482 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1258mg per serving (55% 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 make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the layers in advance and store them separately. Just assemble with apple butter when you're ready to serve. This makes it convenient for parties, allowing you to prepare ahead and enjoy the event.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you're looking for alternatives to margarine, unsalted butter works well and enhances the flavor. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Each option brings a unique taste, so choose based on your dietary needs.
Can I freeze the layers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked layers. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, then assemble with your desired fillings.
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).