Never Fail Fruit Cake
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A Delectable Treat for Any Occasion
There’s something truly comforting about a homemade fruit cake, especially this Never Fail Fruit Cake. Perfect for holidays or special gatherings, its blend of candied fruits and toasted pecans provides a delightful mix of textures and flavors. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and every time it brings back memories of family celebrations and cozy gatherings. It’s simple enough for a beginner but leaves an impression that makes it feel like a labor of love.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile — perfect for a festive holiday dessert, as a unique gift, or even as a sweet addition to a brunch spread. The combination of candied cherries, pineapple, and toasted pecans results in a flavor that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Not to mention, its vibrant colors make it eye-catching on any dessert table!
“This fruit cake was a game-changer for our holiday gatherings! Everyone raved about it, and I loved that it was so easy to make!”
Preparing Never Fail Fruit Cake
Creating this delightful cake is simple and straightforward. You’ll combine rich, sweet flavors with textures that are satisfying and indulgent. With just a few steps, you’ll be on your way to a delicious treat!
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to bring your fruit cake to life:
- 1 lb candied cherries
- 1 lb candied pineapple
- 1 lb pitted dates
- 1 lb chopped pecans
- 4 packages (8 oz each) flaked coconut
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cans (14 oz each) sweetened condensed milk
Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or a variety of dried fruits for a unique twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into the easy-to-follow steps for making your Never Fail Fruit Cake:
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Prepare a 10-inch tube pan by lightly greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
Chop the fruits: In a large mixing bowl, combine the candied cherries, candied pineapple, and pitted dates. Add the chopped pecans and flaked coconut, mixing thoroughly with your hands until everything is well combined.
Coat and blend: Sprinkle the flour over the fruit mixture and stir to coat. Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until fully combined.
Transfer to the pan: Pack the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared tube pan.
Bake: Place it in the oven and bake for 1.5 hours until set and lightly toasted on top.
Cool down: Once baked, run a knife around the edge to remove the rim of the pan. Let it cool slightly before carefully removing the cake from the tube bottom and parchment.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This fruit cake is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it further. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee, and you’ve got the perfect afternoon treat. For those extra special occasions, consider garnishing with fresh cherries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flair!
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your Never Fail Fruit Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the best texture.
Pro Chef Tips
- Pack evenly: Ensure the fruit mixture is compact in the tube pan for even baking.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh candied fruits enhance the flavor; don’t skimp on quality!
- Experiment: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an aromatic twist.
Creative Twists
Feel free to get creative! Swap out pecans for walnuts or incorporate different dried fruits like apricots for a unique flavor profile. You can even add a splash of rum or brandy for a more adult version of this festive cake.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare this cake?
Preparing the cake takes about 30 minutes, while baking will take about 1.5 hours.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of candied?
Fresh fruit won’t provide the same texture or sweetness, so it’s best to stick with candied fruits for this recipe.
How should I serve leftovers?
Leftover fruit cake can be served at room temperature or slightly warmed. You might consider drizzling it with some honey or syrup for an extra treat!
Creating this Never Fail Fruit Cake is a journey of simplicity, and its rewarding taste will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a cozy evening at home, this recipe is sure to delight!
Never Fail Fruit Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Prepare a 10-inch tube pan by lightly greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the candied cherries, candied pineapple, and pitted dates. Add the chopped pecans and flaked coconut, mixing thoroughly with your hands until everything is well combined.
- Sprinkle the flour over the fruit mixture and stir to coat. Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until fully combined.
- Pack the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared tube pan.
- Place it in the oven and bake for 1.5 hours until set and lightly toasted on top.
- Once baked, run a knife around the edge to remove the rim of the pan. Let it cool slightly before carefully removing the cake from the tube bottom and parchment.
