Japanese Fruit Cake: A Family Tradition ๐๐ฐ
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Calories per Serving: 606
- Rating: โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ (4.5 based on 3 reviews)
Description:
The origins of “Japanese Fruit Cake” may be a mystery, but its place in North American homes, especially during festive seasons, is undeniable. ๐ This delightful dessert, a cherished part of our family traditions, deviates from the usual heavy fruitcakes with its unique flavors and textures. While it might take a bit of effort and a few special ingredients, the result is well worth it. Prepare to impress your loved ones with this rich, flavorful delight that stands out from the typical holiday fare.
Ingredients:
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
1 cup | Butter |
1 3/4 cups | Granulated Sugar |
6 | Eggs |
3 1/2 cups | All-Purpose Flour |
2 tsp | Baking Powder |
1 cup | Milk |
1 tsp | Vanilla Extract |
1 1/2 tsp | Ground Cinnamon |
1 tsp | Ground Allspice |
1/2 tsp | Ground Cloves |
1 cup | Golden Raisins |
1 cup | Pecan Halves |
2 tbsp | Cornstarch |
1 1/2 cups | Water |
2 cups | Fresh Lemon Rind |
1/2 cup | Lemon Juice |
1 cup | Coconut |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Cake:
- Cream the butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating with a mixer on medium speed until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder.
- Add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour one-third of the batter into a well-buttered and floured 9-inch round cake pan.
- To the remaining batter, stir in the ground cinnamon, ground allspice, ground cloves, golden raisins, and pecan halves.
- Pour this spiced batter into two well-buttered and floured 9-inch round cake pans.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire racks.
-
Prepare the Frosting:
- Dissolve the cornstarch in 1/2 cup of water and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the remaining 1 cup of water to a boil.
- Stir in the granulated sugar, fresh lemon rind, and lemon juice.
- Return to a boil, then cook until it reaches the soft ball stage (236 degrees Fahrenheit), stirring often.
- Gradually add this hot mixture to the dissolved cornstarch, stirring continuously.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and bubbly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the coconut.
- Allow the frosting to cool slightly before spreading it between the cake layers, on top, and around the sides.
- Stack the white layer between the two spiced layers for a beautiful contrast.
- Garnish the top with pecan halves for an elegant finish.
Serving Suggestions:
This Japanese Fruit Cake is best served in small, indulgent slices due to its rich flavor profile. ๐ฐ Pair it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with loved ones. ๐
Recipe Notes:
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the cake layers and frosting ahead of time. Store the cooled cakes in an airtight container at room temperature, and refrigerate the frosting. Assemble the cake just before serving for the freshest taste.
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Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking! You can add different nuts, dried fruits, or even a hint of citrus zest to elevate the flavors.
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Storage: Store any leftover cake slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This cake also freezes well; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 1 month.
๐ Enjoy Your Culinary Adventure!
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of this beloved Japanese Fruit Cake, a delightful creation that will surely become a cherished tradition in your family, just as it has been in ours. Happy baking! ๐ฅณ๐ฐ