Uncle Jimmy'S "Better Than Fruitcake"
A moist, flavorful fruitcake alternative packed with apples, nuts, and raisins, perfect for snack times or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy fruity, nutty baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Hand mix the stiff dough directly in the pan.
- Mix sugar, oil, and beaten eggs together.
- Add baking soda, salt, vanilla, and cinnamon to the mixture.
- Alternate adding parts of flour, diced apples, raisins, and chopped nuts, mixing well.
- Grease and flour a 13 x 9-inch tube or Bundt pan.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until done, approximately 45 minutes.
- Once cooled, top with confectioners' sugar, butter frosting, Cool Whip, or your preferred topping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister cake, consider adding an extra half cup of diced apples or substituting half of the oil with applesauce. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you could use a sugar substitute suitable for baking. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. This recipe is also adaptable for variations, akin to Hermits Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious cake can be served warm or at room temperature. Consider topping it with a dusting of confectioners' sugar or a dollop of Whipped Buttery Spread(Lo-Cal) for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a great choice for brunch or dessert. For a festive twist, serve it alongside Bernie'S Munching Peanut Brittle for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Uncle Jimmy'S "Better Than Fruitcake" contains roughly 492 calories, with 8g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 917mg per serving (40% 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 other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! You can substitute diced pears, peaches, or even mashed bananas for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so adjust the flour as needed to maintain the right consistency.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the blend has a binding agent like xanthan gum to help with texture. This adjustment makes it suitable for those following gluten-free diets.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Certainly! You can cut back on the sugar by about one-third without significantly affecting the texture or flavor. Alternatively, use a sugar substitute that's designed for baking to maintain sweetness while reducing calories.
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).