Poor Man'S Fruitcake
A nostalgic and hearty fruitcake with simple ingredients, featuring sweet raisins and warm spices. Perfect for sharing during holidays or casual gatherings, this moist loaf offers comforting flavors that appeal to all ages and require minimal fuss in preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook 1 cup raisins in 2 cups water until only 1 cup of water remains.
- Cream together 1 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons shortening.
- Add the cooked raisins and the remaining liquid to the creamed mixture.
- Sift together 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon soda, and 2 cups flour.
- Add the dry ingredients to the raisin mixture and mix well.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake until a pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits like apricots or cherries to the batter. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with unsalted butter or coconut oil. To enhance the spice profile, feel free to add a pinch of allspice or cloves. If you prefer a sweeter cake, increase the sugar by a quarter cup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Poor Man's Fruitcake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Tropical Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. This cake can also be enjoyed as a breakfast treat alongside coffee or tea, making it versatile for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 three weeks. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven at a low temperature until heated through, which will help restore its moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Man'S Fruitcake contains roughly 741 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh fruit instead of raisins?
While raisins are traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different taste. Fresh fruit is not recommended, as it may alter the moisture balance and texture of the cake.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Poor Man's Fruitcake gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture. Additionally, check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What can I serve with this fruitcake?
This fruitcake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a cheese platter, including sharp cheddar or creamy brie. It also pairs well with Deviled Eggs(For 6 Eggs, 12 Halves) for a savory bite alongside the sweet cake.
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).