Name: Gumdrop Fruitcake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 28
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter; 2 cups white sugar; 2 eggs; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp ground cloves; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg; ¼ tsp salt; 1½ cups applesauce; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1 tbsp water; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 16 oz gumdrops; 3 cups raisins; 1 cup pecans; 1 tbsp butter

Gumdrop fruitcake is a delightful twist on the traditional fruitcake, bringing a burst of color and flavor to every bite. This festive recipe combines spices, raisins, pecans, and the fun, chewy texture of gumdrops. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift, this cake is a showstopper that will leave everyone asking for more.

Photos of Gumdrop Fruitcake Recipe

When preparing this recipe, the gumdrops are likely the most uncommon ingredient you’ll need to purchase. Make sure to select fruit-flavored gumdrops and avoid the spiced variety. Applesauce might also be something you don't regularly have at home, so grab a jar while at the store. Lastly, pecans can sometimes be pricier and less common than other nuts, so keep an eye out for them in the baking aisle.

Ingredients for Gumdrop Fruitcake

Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.

White sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with the texture.

Eggs: Provide structure and moisture.

All-purpose flour: The main structure component of the cake.

Ground cinnamon: Adds warm, spicy flavor.

Ground cloves: Provides depth and a hint of spice.

Ground nutmeg: Adds a sweet, nutty flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Applesauce: Adds moisture and a hint of sweetness.

Baking soda: Helps the cake rise.

Water: Used to dissolve the baking soda.

Vanilla extract: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor.

Gumdrops: Provide colorful, chewy bits throughout the cake.

Raisins: Add sweetness and texture.

Pecans: Provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

One reader, Alvin Mcnutt says:

This gumdrop fruitcake recipe is a delightful treat! The combination of spices, applesauce, and colorful gumdrops creates a moist and flavorful cake. Perfect for the holidays, it's a hit with everyone who tries it. The pecans add a lovely crunch. Highly recommend!

Alvin Mcnutt

Techniques Required for Making Gumdrop Fruitcake

How to cut gumdrops: Cut the gumdrops into fourths to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the fruitcake. How to fry pecans: Fry the pecans in 1 tablespoon of butter or margarine until they are lightly toasted to enhance their flavor. How to cream butter and sugar: Cream together the butter and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps to incorporate air and create a better texture in the cake. How to dissolve baking soda: Dissolve the baking soda in hot water to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the batter, which helps the cake to rise properly.

How To Make Gumdrop Fruitcake

This gumdrop fruitcake is loaded with pecans, raisins, and chewy gumdrops for a delectable sweet treat! Serve up a warm loaf for your next dinner party.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupbutter
2cupswhite sugar
2eggs,beaten
4cupsall-purpose flour
1tspground cinnamon
¼tspground cloves
¼tspground nutmeg
¼tspsalt
1½cupsapplesauce
1tspbaking soda
1tbspwater,hot
1tspvanilla extract
16ozgumdrops,no black ones
3cupsraisins
1cuppecans,chopped
1tbspbutter

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line two 9×5-inch loaf pans or a 1-inch tube pan with greased parchment or heavy paper.
Sift together the flour, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
Cut the gumdrops in fourths.
Fry the pecans in 1 tablespoon butter or margarine.
Mix pecans, raisins, and gumdrops together, then roll them in ¾ cup of the flour mixture.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter or margarine and white sugar. Mix in the beaten eggs, then the flour and spice mixture alternately with the applesauce.
Dissolve the soda in hot water, then stir them into the batter. Stir in the vanilla, nuts, gumdrops, and raisins.
Bake for 2 hours. The baking time for the tube pan should be about 30 to 40 minutes longer. Test about 10 minutes before a long time.
Allow to cool, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 263.63kcal
Fat: 10.09g
Saturated Fat: 4.78g
Trans Fat: 0.28g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.17g
Carbohydrates: 42.32g
Fiber: 1.60g
Sugar: 24.91g
Protein: 3.13g
Cholesterol: 29.95mg
Sodium: 73.59mg
Calcium: 18.50mg
Potassium: 167.12mg
Iron: 1.31mg
Vitamin A: 64.09µg
Vitamin C: 3.17mg

Technique Tip for Gumdrop Fruitcake Recipe

To ensure your gumdrops don't sink to the bottom of the fruitcake, make sure to roll them in the flour mixture as instructed. This helps to evenly distribute the gumdrops throughout the batter and prevents them from clumping together.

Time-Saving Tips for Gumdrop Fruitcake Recipe

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to streamline the baking process.

Use pre-chopped nuts: Purchase pre-chopped pecans to save time on preparation.

Opt for pre-cut gumdrops: Look for pre-cut gumdrops or cut them in bulk ahead of time.

Mix dry ingredients in advance: Combine all dry ingredients like flour and spices the night before.

Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer to quickly cream butter and sugar, and to mix the batter efficiently.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven as soon as you begin your preparation to save waiting time.

Line pans ahead: Prepare and line your baking pans with parchment paper before starting the recipe.

Substitute Ingredients For Gumdrop Fruitcake Recipe

butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct substitute for butter in baking, providing a similar texture and moisture content.
white sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor and extra moisture to the cake.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This works well as a binder in baking.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the cake denser.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.
ground cloves - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a similar warm, spicy flavor that can replace cloves in most recipes.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with mace: Mace has a similar flavor profile to nutmeg and can be used in equal amounts.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral flavor.
applesauce - Substitute with mashed bananas: Mashed bananas provide similar moisture and sweetness, though they will add a banana flavor.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder as baking soda, but reduce or eliminate any acidic ingredients.
water - Substitute with milk: Milk adds extra richness and moisture to the cake.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor to the cake.
gumdrops - Substitute with dried fruit: Dried fruit like apricots, cranberries, or cherries add natural sweetness and chewiness.
raisins - Substitute with currants: Currants are similar in texture and sweetness to raisins but are smaller and slightly tangier.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar texture and flavor, making them a good substitute for pecans.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, with a slight coconut flavor.

Presenting Your Gumdrop Fruitcake

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the gumdrop fruitcake into elegant, bite-sized pieces to ensure a refined presentation. Each slice should be about half an inch thick, showcasing the colorful gumdrops and raisins embedded within.
Use decoration: Garnish each plate with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a few whole pecans arranged artistically around the slices. Add a small sprig of fresh mint for a touch of color and freshness.
Add a sauce: Drizzle a thin line of vanilla or caramel sauce on the plate, not over the cake, to enhance the visual appeal and add a complementary flavor.
Incorporate texture: Serve the gumdrop fruitcake with a side of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture will contrast beautifully with the dense, chewy cake.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a few whole gumdrops and raisins on the plate to emphasize the key components of the dish. This will also add a playful and colorful element to the presentation.
Use elegant plating: Choose a sleek, white plate to make the vibrant colors of the gumdrop fruitcake stand out. The simplicity of the plate will allow the cake to be the star of the show.
Create height: Stack two or three slices of the gumdrop fruitcake slightly offset from each other to create a sense of height and dimension on the plate. This will make the dish look more dynamic and visually appealing.
Add a beverage pairing: Suggest a pairing with a small glass of spiced apple cider or a light dessert wine to complement the flavors of the gumdrop fruitcake and enhance the overall dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Gumdrop Fruitcake

Oven: Used to bake the fruitcake at a consistent temperature of 325 degrees F.
Loaf pans: Two 9x5-inch pans for baking the fruitcake, ensuring it holds its shape.
Tube pan: An alternative to loaf pans, providing a different shape and baking dynamic.
Parchment paper: Lining the pans to prevent the fruitcake from sticking and to make removal easier.
Sifter: Used to sift together the flour, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt for an even mixture.
Knife: For cutting the gumdrops into fourths.
Frying pan: To fry the pecans in butter, enhancing their flavor.
Large mixing bowl: For creaming together the butter and sugar, and mixing in other ingredients.
Measuring cups: To measure out the ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: For precise measurement of smaller quantities like spices and vanilla extract.
Wooden spoon: For mixing the batter and incorporating all ingredients.
Small bowl: To dissolve the baking soda in hot water before adding it to the batter.
Cooling rack: To allow the fruitcake to cool evenly after baking.
Spatula: For scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Storing and Freezing Gumdrop Fruitcake

Allow the gumdrop fruitcake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
Wrap the cooled fruitcake tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring that no air pockets remain. This will help maintain the cake's moisture and prevent it from drying out.
For extra protection, wrap the plastic-wrapped cake in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. This will further prevent moisture loss and protect the cake from absorbing any unwanted odors from the refrigerator or freezer.
If storing the fruitcake in the refrigerator, it can be kept for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to keep it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, away from any strong-smelling foods.
To freeze the gumdrop fruitcake, follow the wrapping instructions above and place the cake in the freezer. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to serve the frozen fruitcake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the wrapping and allow the cake to come to room temperature before slicing and serving.
If you prefer to serve the fruitcake warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for a few minutes.

How To Reheat Leftover Gumdrop Fruitcake

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Wrap the leftover gumdrop fruitcake in aluminum foil, making sure it's completely covered. Place the wrapped cake on a baking sheet and heat it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to retain the cake's moisture and prevents it from drying out.
If you prefer a slightly crispy exterior, unwrap the fruitcake and place it on a baking sheet. Heat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until the surface is lightly toasted and the interior is warm.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place a slice of gumdrop fruitcake on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it in the microwave on high power for 20-30 seconds, or until it's warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it may become rubbery or dry.
If you have a steamer basket, you can use it to reheat the fruitcake. Place the cake in the steamer basket and set it over a pot of simmering water. Cover the basket with a lid and steam the cake for 5-10 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to keep the cake moist and soft.
For a unique twist, try reheating a slice of gumdrop fruitcake in a skillet with a small amount of butter. Melt the butter over medium heat, then add the cake slice. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it's lightly browned and heated through. The butter adds a rich flavor and helps to create a slightly crispy exterior.

Random Fact About Gumdrop Fruitcake

A unique aspect of this gumdrop fruitcake recipe is the use of applesauce as a moistening agent. This not only adds a subtle fruity flavor but also helps keep the cake moist for a longer period, making it a delightful treat during the holiday season.

Is Making Gumdrop Fruitcake at Home Economical?

The gumdrop fruitcake recipe is moderately cost-effective. The use of butter, white sugar, and raisins are standard pantry items, but the addition of gumdrops and pecans can increase the cost. Overall, the recipe rates a 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD.

Is Gumdrop Fruitcake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This gumdrop fruitcake recipe is relatively unhealthy due to several factors:

High sugar content: The recipe calls for 2 cups of white sugar, which is a significant amount of added sugar. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
Refined flour: All-purpose flour is a refined carbohydrate that lacks fiber and essential nutrients. It can cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to weight gain.
High fat content: The recipe uses 1 cup of butter, which is high in saturated fat. Excessive saturated fat intake can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
Lack of nutritional value: While the recipe includes some dried fruits and nuts, the overall nutritional value is limited, as it lacks fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar by half and replace it with natural sweeteners like applesauce, mashed bananas, or dates
Use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like almond or coconut flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Replace half of the butter with healthier options like Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or coconut oil
Incorporate more dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, and figs to boost the nutrient content
Add some chopped fresh fruits like apples or pears for added moisture and fiber
Reduce the number of gumdrops and replace them with more nuts and seeds for a protein and healthy fat boost
Use unsweetened applesauce to cut down on added sugars

Editor's Thoughts on This Gumdrop Fruitcake Recipe

This gumdrop fruitcake recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic holiday treat. The combination of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg creates a warm, aromatic base. The use of applesauce adds moisture, ensuring a tender crumb. Frying the pecans in butter enhances their flavor, while rolling the gumdrops and raisins in flour prevents them from sinking. The recipe is straightforward, though the baking time is quite long. Overall, it's a festive and flavorful cake that balances sweetness and spice beautifully.

Enhance Your Gumdrop Fruitcake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up your taste buds with a velvety butternut squash soup that complements the sweetness of the gumdrop fruitcake. The earthy flavors of the squash and a hint of nutmeg create a harmonious balance, making each bite of the fruitcake even more delightful.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: Add a refreshing twist to your dessert experience with a cranberry walnut salad. The tartness of the cranberries and the crunch of the walnuts provide a delightful contrast to the rich, sweet flavors of the gumdrop fruitcake. A light citrus vinaigrette ties it all together beautifully.

Spiced Apple Compote: Elevate your dessert game with a spiced apple compote. The warm spices and tender apples enhance the fruity notes of the gumdrop fruitcake. Serve it warm or chilled for a comforting and flavorful pairing.

Maple Glazed Carrots: Bring a touch of elegance to your table with maple glazed carrots. The natural sweetness of the carrots and the rich maple syrup glaze create a delightful contrast to the chewy, fruity bits in the gumdrop fruitcake. A sprinkle of rosemary adds a fragrant finish.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Indulge in a classic pairing with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy texture and subtle vanilla flavor provide a perfect counterpoint to the dense, flavorful gumdrop fruitcake. It's a timeless combination that never fails to impress.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Gumdrop Fruitcake

Spiced Apple Cake: Spiced Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with the sweetness of apples. Perfect for a cozy evening, this cake is moist and flavorful, making it a family favorite.

Fruit and Nut Bread: Fruit and Nut Bread is a hearty bread packed with raisins, pecans, and a variety of dried fruits. This bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack, offering a delightful crunch and a burst of natural sweetness.

Holiday Plum Pudding: Holiday Plum Pudding is a traditional dessert often enjoyed during festive seasons. Made with dried plums, spices, and a touch of brandy, this pudding is rich, dense, and full of holiday cheer.

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a classic dessert that features moist carrot-infused cake layers topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. The addition of walnuts or pecans adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Banana Nut Bread: Banana Nut Bread is a comforting dessert or snack that combines ripe bananas with crunchy walnuts. This bread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for using up overripe bananas.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Gumdrop Fruitcake Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked to perfection, creating a delightful contrast between the tender mushroom and the creamy filling. Top them with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a touch of fresh parsley for an elegant presentation. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, brushed with olive oil and a hint of garlic. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish. The combination of crunchy bread, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave your guests craving more.

Main Courses:

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful and colorful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. Imagine vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and a medley of spices. The filling is enriched with tomato sauce and cheese, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The peppers are baked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This dish is not only visually appealing but also a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Chicken Marsala: Chicken Marsala is an elegant and flavorful dish that is sure to impress. Tender chicken breasts are lightly coated in flour and sautéed until golden brown. The star of the dish is the rich Marsala wine sauce, which is infused with mushrooms and shallots. The sauce is reduced to a silky consistency, enveloping the chicken in a luscious, savory glaze. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or pasta, making it a perfect choice for a special dinner or a cozy night in.

Why trust this Gumdrop Fruitcake Recipe:

This gumdrop fruitcake recipe is a delightful twist on a classic holiday treat, combining the rich flavors of spices and applesauce with the playful sweetness of gumdrops. The pecans add a satisfying crunch, while the raisins provide a chewy texture. Carefully tested and crafted, this recipe ensures a moist and flavorful cake that will impress your guests. Trust in the balance of ingredients and the detailed instructions to create a festive dessert that stands out.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Gumdrop Fruitcake Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Join the discussion and let us know how your fruitcake turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can use margarine instead of butter. Just make sure to use the same amount as specified in the recipe.

Do I need to soak the raisins before adding them to the batter?

No, you don't need to soak the raisins. Just mix them with the gumdrops and pecans as directed.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or any other nut you prefer.

How do I know when the fruitcake is done baking?

You can test the fruitcake by inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it's done.

Can I freeze the fruitcake for later?

Yes, you can freeze the fruitcake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It should keep well for several months.