Poor Man Fruitcake
A hearty, nostalgic fruitcake bursting with warm spices, chopped pecans, raisins, and maraschino cherries. Its moist texture and rich flavors make it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family occasions, offering a simple yet flavorful treat that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat applesauce and margarine in a saucepan until warmed.
- Add ground cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the mixture and stir.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar together until well combined.
- Gradually add the self-rising flour to the egg mixture, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the heated applesauce and margarine mixture.
- Add the coconut, pecans, raisins, and diced maraschino cherries to the batter and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the batter into a greased tube pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for approximately 3 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute the margarine with unsalted butter for a more traditional taste. If you're looking to reduce sugar, try a sugar substitute suitable for baking. Ensure to chop the pecans and cherries evenly for better distribution in the batter. This cake can be enhanced by adding dried fruits like apricots or figs, similar to what you'd find in Cara Jeanne'S Cranberry Orange Nut Bread.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh cherries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. You can also explore more American recipes for a complete holiday spread.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Poor Man Fruitcake to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Man Fruitcake contains roughly 1082 calories, with 6g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 550mg 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 different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans lend a delicious flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds according to your preference. Just be sure to chop them to a similar size. If you have nut allergies, you could even consider omitting them entirely or using seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets, simply replace the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes a leavening agent, or add baking powder and salt as needed. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
How long does this fruitcake last?
If stored properly, this fruitcake can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for several months in the freezer, and you can enjoy it by thawing it overnight in the fridge 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).