This exceptional fruit cake recipe distinguishes itself from conventional versions through its carefully selected ingredients and precise baking method. The combination of premium nuts, candied fruit, and measured steaming process creates a remarkably moist, flavorful cake that challenges common misconceptions about traditional fruit cake.
Ingredients
Fruits and Nuts:
- 455g (1 pound) pecans
- 455g (1 pound) dates, pitted and chopped
- 225g (½ pound) candied cherries (equal parts red and green)
- 225g (½ pound) candied pineapple (red and green or yellow)
Dry Ingredients:
- 150g (¾ cup) granulated sugar
- 95g (¾ cup) all-purpose flour
- 2.5g (½ teaspoon) baking powder
- 2.5g (½ teaspoon) kosher salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 5ml (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract or 15ml (1 tablespoon) rum, bourbon, or brandy
Detailed Instructions
1. Oven Preparation
- Preheat oven to 120°C (250°F)
- Position one rack in lower third of oven
- Place secondary rack in middle position
- Set pan filled ⅓ with boiling water on lower rack
2. Pan Preparation
- Spray two 23cm (9-inch) loaf pans with cooking spray
- Line with wax paper or parchment paper
- Apply additional cooking spray to paper lining
- Ensure complete coverage of pan surfaces
3. Ingredient Preparation
- Chop dates into uniform pieces
- Verify pecans are fresh and unsalted
- Combine fruits and nuts in large mixing bowl
- Sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt
- Sprinkle dry ingredients over fruit mixture
- Mix thoroughly with hands until evenly coated
4. Final Assembly
- Beat eggs until light and airy
- Add chosen flavoring (vanilla or spirits)
- Pour egg mixture over fruit and nut mixture
- Combine thoroughly using hands
- Transfer to prepared pans
- Press gently to eliminate air pockets
5. Baking Process
- Position filled pans on middle rack
- Maintain water level in steam pan
- Bake 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Cool completely in pans
Nutritional Information
Per slice (serves 24):
- Calories: 245
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 85mg
Time Requirements:
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Baking: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Cooling: 2 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Professional Culinary Tips
- Ingredient Selection:
- Choose high-quality candied fruit
- Ensure dates are fresh and moist
- Select uniform, golden pecans
- Avoid pre-mixed candied fruit combinations
- Temperature Management:
- Maintain consistent oven temperature
- Monitor steam pan water levels
- Allow ingredients to reach room temperature
Variations and Substitutions
Nut Options:
- Walnuts
- Macadamia nuts
- Mixed tree nuts
Fruit Alternatives:
- Candied citrus peel
- Dried cranberries
- Candied ginger
Spirit Selection:
- Dark rum
- Cognac
- Whiskey
Common FAQs
Q: Why is the baking temperature so low?
A: The low temperature and steam ensure even baking and prevent the fruits from becoming dry or bitter.
Q: Is aging necessary for this fruit cake?
A: No, this recipe produces an immediately enjoyable cake, though it maintains quality for several weeks.
Q: Can I reduce the amount of fruit?
A: The ratio of fruits to batter is essential for proper texture; significant alterations may affect the outcome.
Q: How long will this cake stay fresh?
A: Properly stored, it maintains quality for up to 6 weeks.
Storage and Preservation Guidelines
Immediate Storage:
- Cool completely
- Maintain wax paper wrapping
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap
- Cover with aluminum foil
- Store in cool, dark location
Long-term Preservation:
- Optional spirit application weekly
- Maintain airtight wrapping
- Check periodically for freshness
- Store away from heat and light
Shipping Instructions:
- Cool completely
- Wrap in wax paper
- Cover securely with aluminum foil
- Pack in sturdy container
- Ship using expedited service
This refined fruit cake recipe produces a sophisticated, flavorful dessert that honors traditional holiday baking while incorporating modern techniques for optimal results. The careful selection of ingredients and precise baking method ensure a consistently superior product suitable for gifting or personal enjoyment.
