Orange Candy Fruit Cake
A delightful fruit cake featuring orange candy slices, dates, nuts, and coconut, offering a rich, sweet, and tangy flavor profile perfect for celebrations and dessert tables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar together.
- Add eggs one at a time and mix well.
- Alternately add flour and soda dissolved in buttermilk, mixing after each addition.
- Fold in orange candy slices, dates or white raisins, coconut, and chopped nuts.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming with sugar. You can substitute the buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. If you don't have orange candy slices, try using candied citrus peel or dried apricots as alternatives. For added crunch, consider folding in chopped walnuts or pecans.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect for afternoon tea or as a festive dessert. Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside a slice of Creamy Hot Dog Casserole for an unexpected meal combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Orange Candy Fruit Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15 seconds, or enjoy it cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Candy Fruit Cake contains roughly 2427 calories, with 26g protein, 244g carbohydrates, and 158g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and potassium (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% 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 fruit instead of orange candy slices?
Yes, you can substitute orange candy slices with other candied fruits such as pineapple or cherries. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots also work well, but keep in mind that they may alter the flavor profile slightly.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out too dry, consider drizzling a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water over the slices before serving. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream to enhance moisture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better after a day or two as the flavors meld together. Make it ahead of time and store it as instructed to allow the ingredients to develop a richer taste.
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).