
A historical dessert from The White House cook book; a comprehensive cyclopedia of information for the home .. (1913). A cup of grated cocoanut is a nice addition to this cake. Bake slowly and test for doneness with a splint.
Preserved exactly as written in the original source
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Mix all thoroughly before adding the fruit; add a teaspoonful of lemon extract.
Put baking powder in the flour and mix it well before adding it to the other ingredients.
Sift a little flour over the fruit before stirring it in.
Bake slowly two hours and try with a splint to see when it is done.
Modern guidance to help you succeed with this vintage recipe
Coating the dried fruit with flour before folding it into the batter prevents sinking by creating friction and absorbing excess moisture that would otherwise weigh down the fruit. The high ratio of egg whites to yolks creates a pale, delicate crumb while still providing structural protein. Slow, low-temperature baking (around 300°F) prevents the exterior from setting too quickly and allows the dense, fruit-laden batter to cook through evenly without burning the nuts or fruit.
This fruitcake actually improves with age. Once completely cooled, wrap tightly in cheesecloth soaked in brandy or rum (optional), then wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store at room temperature for up to 1 month, or refrigerate for up to 3 months. The flavors meld and the texture becomes more moist over time. If using alcohol, refresh the cheesecloth weekly.
Store the completely cooled cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for up to 1 month. For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The high sugar and fruit content acts as a natural preservative. Slice only as needed to maintain moisture.
AI-generated tips from Chef Cecil's culinary database
This fruitcake actually improves with age. Once completely cooled, wrap tightly in cheesecloth soaked in brandy or rum (optional), then wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store at room temperature for up to 1 month, or refrigerate for up to 3 months. The flavors meld and the texture becomes more moist over time. If using alcohol, refresh the cheesecloth weekly.
Store the completely cooled cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for up to 1 month. For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The high sugar and fruit content acts as a natural preservative. Slice only as needed to maintain moisture.