Original Kentucky Whiskey Cake(A Cissy Gregg Recipe)
A rich, boozy fruitcake infused with Kentucky bourbon, featuring cherries, pecans, and raisins, perfect for special occasions and loved by those who enjoy deep, flavorful desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak cherries and raisins in bourbon overnight.
- After flouring nuts, sift the rest of the flour with baking powder and nutmeg three times.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add beaten egg yolks and beat well.
- Add soaked fruit, remaining liquid, and flour to the butter, sugar, and egg mixture.
- Fold in beaten egg whites.
- Add floured pecans to the mixture.
- Pour into a large greased tube pan lined with brown paper, greased and floured.
- Bake at 250° to 275°F for 3 to 4 hours, watching the baking time.
- Cool completely and place in a tightly covered container.
- Stuff the center hole with cheesecloth soaked in bourbon.
- Wrap the cake in heavy waxed paper.
- Keep very cool and refrigerate if necessary.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, let the cherries and raisins soak in bourbon for a full 24 hours to enhance the flavor. If you can't find red candied cherries, feel free to substitute with dried cranberries for a similar taste. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. If you prefer a lighter cake, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour.
Serving Suggestions
This Kentucky Whiskey Cake is perfect for special occasions and pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It also makes a great addition to dessert tables alongside other sweet treats, such as Salvation Army Doughnuts.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in waxed paper and place it in an airtight container. This will help retain moisture and flavor. Keep the cake in a cool, dark place for up to a month. If refrigeration is necessary due to warm temperatures, ensure it's well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Original Kentucky Whiskey Cake(A Cissy Gregg Recipe) contains roughly 3423 calories, with 30g protein, 591g carbohydrates, and 124g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), potassium (67% of the Daily Value), and iron (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 542mg per serving (24% 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 a different type of alcohol instead of bourbon?
Yes, you can substitute bourbon with rum or brandy for a different flavor profile, though it will alter the cake's traditional taste. Just ensure that the substitute has a similar alcohol content to maintain the recipe's integrity.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it can vary slightly depending on your oven. Remember, it's better to start checking a bit early than to overbake.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. After wrapping it tightly in waxed paper, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for several hours before serving.
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).