Fruit Cake. Mrs. John Evans. Recipe

History and Fun Facts about Fruit Cake:

Fruit cake is a classic and beloved dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was believed to have been made with pomegranate seeds, pine nuts, and raisins. Over time, different regions and cultures developed their own variations of fruit cake, incorporating local fruits, spices, and spirits.

During the Middle Ages, fruit cake gained popularity in Europe, especially during celebrations like weddings and Christmas festivities. It was often considered a luxury item due to the high cost of dried fruits and spices. These cakes were baked well in advance of the occasion and allowed to mature, sometimes for several months, to enhance their flavor.

In the 16th century, fruit cake became associated with celebrations and religious rituals. It became customary to serve fruit cake at important ceremonies such as christenings, weddings, and even funerals. It was believed that the rich and dense cake symbolized prosperity, fertility, and good luck.

Today, fruit cake continues to be a staple dessert during the holiday season, particularly in Western countries. It is often studded with a variety of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, giving it a dense and moist texture. Many people also like to soak their fruit cake in alcohol, such as rum or brandy, to add an extra kick of flavor.

Recipe for Mrs. John Evan's Fruit Cake:

Ingredients:
- 2 cups butter
- 2 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 1/2 cups molasses
- 8 cups flour
- 2 cups sour milk
- 8 eggs
- 2 teaspoonfuls soda
- 3 pounds raisins
- 3 pounds currants
- 1 pound citron
- 1 pound figs
- 2 lemons (grate the rind and squeeze the juice)
- 2 glasses of jelly
- Cloves, mace, cinnamon, and nutmegs

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a large bundt or tube pan.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the molasses to the butter-sugar mixture and mix well.

4. In a separate bowl, sift the flour and the soda together.

5. Alternate adding the flour mixture and the sour milk to the butter-sugar mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix well after each addition.

6. In another bowl, combine the raisins, currants, citron, and figs. Toss them with a small amount of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.

7. Fold in the fruit mixture to the cake batter, along with the grated lemon rind and lemon juice. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

8. Lastly, add your desired amount of cloves, mace, cinnamon, and nutmegs to the batter. Adjust the spices to your taste.

9. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

10. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 3 1/2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

11. Once baked, remove the fruit cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

12. Optionally, you can brush the cooled fruit cake with a small amount of rum or brandy for added flavor and moisture.

This rich and flavorful fruit cake can be enjoyed during the holiday season or on any special occasion. Its dense texture and combination of fruits and spices make it a true delight for fruit cake lovers.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy fruit cake, you might also like these similar recipe dishes:

1. Panettone: This Italian Christmas bread is similar to fruit cake but is typically lighter and more airy. It is traditionally made with candied orange peel, raisins, and lemon zest. Panettone is often served sliced with a cup of tea or coffee.

2. Stollen: Originating from Germany, stollen is a traditional Christmas fruit bread made with dried fruits, such as raisins and candied citrus peel. It is typically dusted with powdered sugar and can be enjoyed as a breakfast treat or dessert.

3. Jamaican Black Cake: This Caribbean variation of fruit cake is known for its rich and boozy flavor. It is made with fruits soaked in rum and can be enjoyed throughout the year, especially during celebrations and weddings.

4. Irish Barmbrack: Barmbrack is a traditional Irish fruit bread that is often served during Halloween. It is made with dried fruits soaked in tea and is believed to predict the future. Each fruit represents a different outcome, such as wealth or poverty.

These dishes share a common love for dried fruits and spices, making them perfect choices for those who enjoy the rich and flavorful taste of fruit cake.

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