Old Timer Fruitcake
Old Timer Fruitcake is a traditional, flavorful treat featuring molasses, spices, applesauce, and apple butter, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy occasions, offering rich, warm flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix eggs, molasses, milk, cinnamon, and ginger together in a bowl.
- In a pan, work in self-rising flour and shortening until well combined.
- Add the combined wet ingredients to the flour mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Roll out the dough thinly and cut with a pie pan or cookie cutter.
- Bake at 400°F until the fruitcake is browned and cooked through, approximately 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsalted butter. If you prefer less sweetness, use brown sugar instead of molasses. Ensure you measure the flour accurately; too much can lead to a dry cake. You can also add chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This fruitcake is delightful served plain, but you can enhance it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve alongside Ellen's Chocolate Cake or Plain Pumpkin Bread during holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruitcake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a month. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Timer Fruitcake contains roughly 467 calories, with 3g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture may be denser. Consider mixing it with all-purpose flour to maintain a lighter cake while still enjoying the benefits of whole grains.
How can I make this fruitcake more moist?
To add moisture, incorporate additional applesauce or a splash of orange juice into the batter. You can also brush the finished fruitcake with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water to enhance its moisture content.
What type of dried fruits work best in this recipe?
Dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins complement the flavors of the fruitcake beautifully. Feel free to experiment with your favorite dried fruits to create a unique twist on this classic recipe.
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).