The Ultimate Dessert That Combines Elegance, Nutrition, and Irresistible Taste
Prepare to be amazed by a cake that’s not just a dessert, but a culinary work of art. This Fruit and Nut Celebration Cake is a symphony of textures and flavors—layers of moist cake studded with vibrant dried fruits, creamy filling, and a generous sprinkle of toasted nuts that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Each slice tells a story of indulgence: golden cake layers intertwined with creamy white frosting, punctuated by jewel-like dried cranberries and apricots, and crowned with a delightful array of crunchy nuts. It’s a dessert that proves healthy ingredients can create the most luxurious experience.
Why This Fruit and Nut Cake?
- Multiple layers of complex flavors
- Beautiful, Instagram-worthy presentation
- Packed with nutritious ingredients
- Perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgence
- Balances sweet and nutty profiles
Ingredients List
US Measurements
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (240 grams)
- Granulated Sugar: 1½ cups (300 grams)
- Butter: 1 cup (227 grams), softened
- Eggs: 4 large
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
- Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Milk: ½ cup (120 ml)
Filling and Topping
- Cream Cheese: 16 oz (450 grams), softened
- Powdered Sugar: 2 cups (240 grams)
- Dried Cranberries: ½ cup (75 grams)
- Dried Apricots: ½ cup (75 grams)
- Mixed Nuts (Almonds, Pecans): ¾ cup (90 grams)
Metric Measurements
- All-Purpose Flour: 240 grams
- Granulated Sugar: 300 grams
- Butter: 227 grams, softened
- Eggs: 4 large
- Vanilla Extract: 10 ml
- Baking Powder: 10 grams
- Salt: 3 grams
- Milk: 120 ml
Filling and Topping
- Cream Cheese: 450 grams, softened
- Powdered Sugar: 240 grams
- Dried Cranberries: 75 grams
- Dried Apricots: 75 grams
- Mixed Nuts: 90 grams
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy
- Add eggs one at a time
- Mix in vanilla extract
- In separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt
- Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to butter mixture
- Fold in chopped dried fruits
- Divide batter between prepared pans
- Bake for 25-30 minutes
- Cool completely on wire rack
2. Create the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat cream cheese until smooth
- Gradually add powdered sugar
- Mix until light and creamy
- Toast nuts in a dry pan until fragrant
3. Assemble the Cake
- Place first cake layer on serving plate
- Spread thick layer of cream cheese filling
- Sprinkle with chopped dried fruits
- Add second cake layer
- Cover entire cake with remaining filling
- Decorate top with toasted nuts and additional dried fruits
Nutritional Information and Timing
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 7-9g
- Carbohydrates: 50-55g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Fiber: 3-4g
- Vitamin A: 10% of daily value
- Vitamin E: 15% of daily value
Cooking Timelines
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour
- Assembly Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2-3 hours
- Servings: 10-12 slices
Pro Baking Tips and Tricks
Cake Perfection
- Room temperature ingredients blend better
- Don’t overmix the batter
- Check doneness with toothpick test
Fruit and Nut Tips
- Chop dried fruits to prevent sinking
- Toast nuts for enhanced flavor
- Pat dried fruits dry to prevent excess moisture
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream frosting
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs
Flavor Enhancements
- Add orange zest to batter
- Use different nut combinations
- Drizzle with honey before serving
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
A: Yes! Bake cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Assemble just before serving.
Q2: How Do I Store This Cake?
A: Refrigerate for up to 5 days in airtight container.
Q3: Can I Freeze This Cake?
A: Freeze unfrosted layers for up to 1 month.
Q4: How Do I Prevent Fruits from Sinking?
A: Toss fruits in a bit of flour before adding to batter.
Q5: Can I Use Different Fruits?
A: Absolutely! Try dried cherries, blueberries, or tropical fruits.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigeration and Serving
- Store in refrigerator
- Best served at room temperature
- Consume within 5 days
Make-Ahead Strategy
- Bake cake layers in advance
- Prepare frosting day of serving
- Perfect for special occasions
Prepare to fall in love with the most incredible Fruit and Nut Celebration Cake that’s sure to impress!