Quick Trick Fruit Cake
A moist, spice‑infused fruit cake packed with dates, walnuts, and raisins—ideal for holiday gatherings or a comforting dessert that satisfies sweet and savory cravings alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Grease and flour a 9 x 5 x 3‑inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl combine the date bar mix with hot water; add eggs, flour, baking powder, molasses, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, blending well.
- Fold in the sweet & sour glace cake mix, chopped walnuts, and raisins until evenly incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake and wrap it well.
- Store in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For added richness, consider substituting half of the walnuts with pecans. If you lack date bar mix, a combination of mashed dates and a bit of brown sugar can work as a substitute. Be careful not to overmix once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to a dense cake. Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick Trick Fruit Cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or serving it with a side of seasonal fruits.
Storage & Reheating
Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To enjoy it warm, simply slice a piece and microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will revive the flavors and texture beautifully.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Trick Fruit Cake contains roughly 1203 calories, with 15g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (76% of the Daily Value), calcium (71% of the Daily Value), and iron (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 576mg 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 fresh fruit instead of glace cake mix?
While fresh fruit can add moisture, it may alter the texture and baking time of the cake. If you choose to use fresh fruit, reduce the amount slightly and adjust the baking time, checking for doneness earlier to prevent excess moisture.
Is it possible to make this cake vegan?
Yes, you can make this Quick Trick Fruit Cake vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce. For the molasses, ensure it's a plant-based option. However, keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly from the original recipe.
How can I enhance the flavor of the cake?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a handful of dried cranberries for added tartness. Additionally, a touch of orange zest can brighten the flavors and give it a lovely aromatic quality.
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).