Nan'S Best Dark Fruitcake: Recipe

Name: Nan'S Best Dark Fruitcake:
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups seedless raisins; 3 cups sultana raisins; 1 cup glace cherries, chopped; 1 cup dates, chopped; 1 cup nuts, chopped, lightly toasted (that have been in the oven); 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups flour; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed; 1/4 teaspoon mace; 1 cup shortening; 1 cup dark rum; 6 eggs; 1/3 cup jam (strawberry is best); 1/2 cup molasses

Servings: persons

3 cups seedless raisins
3 cups sultana raisins
1 cup glace cherries, chopped
1 cup dates, chopped
1 cup nuts, chopped, lightly toasted (that have been in the oven)
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
1/4 teaspoon mace
1 cup shortening
1 cup dark rum
6 eggs
1/3 cup jam (strawberry is best)
1/2 cup molasses

1
With 3/4 cup of the dark rum, pour over chopped fruit and nuts. Cover and let soak for at least 48 hours. The fruit should be stirred once a day or so.
2
Keep remaining rum for after baking directions -- see below.
3
Stir flour, salt, baking soda and spices together Set aside.
4
In separate bowl, Cream shortening and brown sugar together till fluffy.
5
Add eggs and beat one at a time.
6
Add molasses, jam and mix well.
7
Blend in dry ingredients. Fold in fruit.
8
Prepare your round fruit cake pan by oiling and line pan with paper. Oil and flour again lightly.
9
Ensure the top of the paper is about 1 inch or so above the top of the pan.
10
Fill prepared pans 2/3 full.
11
Bake in a slow oven 300u00b0F for 2 hours or so.
12
Place a shallow pan of hot water on the bottom rack of the oven during baking. This will ensure the cake stays moist. Remove this pan of water during the last hour of baking.
13
Cool completely before removing paper.
14
Storing and mellowing of fruit Cake: Wrap a cheese cloth that has been soaked in the remaining 1/4 cup of rum over the cake, covering it completely.
15
Next wrap the cake and cheesecloth in aluminum foil wrap.
16
Place in a cool place. Taste of cake is best when stored for 4 weeks or so! I've often brushed egg white over the cake, rolled out almond paste and laid it over the top and sides of cake. I then ice it. Everyone raves! NOTE: I've often doubled the recipe for a larger cake.

590

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
Leave out the nuts to make it nut-free, or swap in seeds for a similar crunch.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 18 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 3 cups seedless raisins, 3 cups sultana raisins, 1 cup glace cherries, chopped, 1 cup dates, chopped, and more.

Yes, Nan'S Best Dark Fruitcake: falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Nan'S Best Dark Fruitcake:

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions