The Old Fashioned Claxton Fruit Cake is a beloved classic treat that families have loved for years. It’s a holiday favorite, known for its rich taste and thick texture, filled with tasty candied fruits and nuts.
Claxton Fruit Cake represents a traditional baking heritage that reminds us of family gatherings and celebrations. Made with care and a great mix of sweet and savory flavors, this cake is not just a tasty treat but also a symbol of beloved traditions and the joy of being together.
So, what makes this fruit cake so special, and how can you make it in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the history of Claxton Fruit Cake and explore the recipe that has been passed down for generations.
What Is the Claxton Fruit Cake and Why Is It Special?
The story of Claxton Fruit Cake began over a century ago, back in 1910, when Savino Tos bought a small bakery in Claxton, Georgia.
The bakery was famous for its tasty cakes and pastries, but it wasn’t until 1935 that Savino’s son, Albert C. Tos, added a new treat to the menu – the well-known Claxton Fruit Cake. Made with the best ingredients like golden raisins, pineapple, cherries, and Georgia pecans, the fruit cake quickly became popular with local customers.
The Claxton Fruit Cake is not ordinary cake; it’s known for its unique mix of ingredients that make it taste amazing. What makes it special is its rich blend of candied fruits, nuts, and spices mixed into a thick, moist cake.
The mix of flavors and textures in Claxton Fruit Cake makes it a great treat for any occasion, especially during the holidays. Families come together to enjoy this yummy cake, which has become a cherished tradition in many homes.
Ingredients Needed for Claxton Fruit Cake
To create a Claxton Fruit Cake in your own kitchen, gather the following ingredients:
- Golden raisins: 1 1/2 cups
- Candied pineapple: 1 cup, chopped
- Candied cherries: 1 cup, halved
- Georgia pecans: 1 1/2 cups, chopped
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Spice blend (such as cinnamon and nutmeg): 1 teaspoon
- Brown sugar: 1 cup, firmly packed
- Butter: 1/2 cup, softened
- Eggs: 4 large
- Molasses: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
These carefully chosen ingredients come together to create the delicious taste and texture of the Claxton Fruit Cake. Each part matters, from the sweet candied fruits to the crunchy pecans, making a cake that is both tasty and satisfying.
Nutritional Information of the Claxton Fruit Cake
To help you better understand the nutritional values of a classic Claxton Fruit Cake, here is a simple table with information for each serving. These values are just approximate and may change depending on how it’s made and how much you serve.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 330 | 16% |
| Total Fat | 14g | 18% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 60mg | 20% |
| Sodium | 150mg | 6% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 48g | 17% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 7% |
| Sugars | 32g | — |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin D | 0.5mcg | 3% |
| Calcium | 50mg | 4% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 200mg | 4% |
Equipment Needed
Making the perfect Claxton Fruit Cake needs some key kitchen tools. Having the right stuff ready makes baking easier and more successful:
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Baking Pans
- An Electric Mixer
- A Rubber Spatula
- Cooling Rack
With these tools, you’re all set to create a Claxton Fruit Cake that’s as delightful to make as it is to taste.
Recipe for Old Fashioned Claxton Fruit Cake
Okay, now that you have the necessary ingredients and equipment, let’s get to baking. The following recipe will make a delicious 9-inch round fruit cake.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients on the list and setting them out on your kitchen counter. This makes sure everything is within reach as you start baking. Double-check the measurements to make sure you have the right amounts. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to prepare for baking the fruit cake.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Take a large mixing bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, spice blend, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended. This helps ensure the cake will have an even flavor throughout.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process adds air to the batter, which contributes to the cake’s rise.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Molasses
Once the butter and sugar are creamed, mix in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Then, pour in the molasses and vanilla extract, and keep mixing until everything is smooth. This makes the cake taste rich and full.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix slowly to avoid any lumps. Ensure everything is combined thoroughly, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed with a rubber spatula. The batter should be thick and smooth.
Step 6: Fold in Fruits and Nuts
Gently mix in the golden raisins, candied pineapple, candied cherries, and chopped pecans. Make sure the fruits and nuts are spread out evenly in the batter. This is where the cake gets its special taste from the sweet and nutty flavors.
Step 7: Transfer to Baking Pans
Grease your baking pans or line them with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pans, smoothing the top with a spatula. Don’t overfill; leave enough space for the cake to rise while baking.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for about two hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on the cakes in the final stages. If the tops start to brown too quickly, cover them lightly with foil.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans on a cooling rack for about 15 minutes. Carefully remove them from the pans and let them cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your Claxton Fruit Cake as a delightful treat during festive celebrations or as a special dessert for family gatherings.
If you are a cake lover, don’t miss the chance to delight your palate with our Stock’s Bakery Pound Cake and Kodiak Protein Pancakes. The Pound Cake has a classic dense but light texture, filled with rich buttery flavors that melt in your mouth—perfect for having with tea or as a base for delicious toppings. And the Protein Pancakes offer a healthy, high-protein twist on regular pancakes.
Old Fashioned Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking Pans
- An Electric Mixer
- A Rubber Spatula
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- Golden raisins: 1 1/2 cups
- Candied pineapple: 1 cup chopped
- Candied cherries: 1 cup halved
- Georgia pecans: 1 1/2 cups chopped
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Spice blend such as cinnamon and nutmeg: 1 teaspoon
- Brown sugar: 1 cup firmly packed
- Butter: 1/2 cup softened
- Eggs: 4 large
- Molasses: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by gathering all the ingredients on the list and setting them out on your kitchen counter. This makes sure everything is within reach as you start baking. Double-check the measurements to make sure you have the right amounts. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to prepare for baking the fruit cake.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Take a large mixing bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, spice blend, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended. This helps ensure the cake will have an even flavor throughout.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process adds air to the batter, which contributes to the cake’s rise.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Molasses
- Once the butter and sugar are creamed, mix in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Then, pour in the molasses and vanilla extract, and keep mixing until everything is smooth. This makes the cake taste rich and full.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix slowly to avoid any lumps. Ensure everything is combined thoroughly, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed with a rubber spatula. The batter should be thick and smooth.
Step 6: Fold in Fruits and Nuts
- Gently mix in the golden raisins, candied pineapple, candied cherries, and chopped pecans. Make sure the fruits and nuts are spread out evenly in the batter. This is where the cake gets its special taste from the sweet and nutty flavors.
Step 7: Transfer to Baking Pans
- Grease your baking pans or line them with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pans, smoothing the top with a spatula. Don’t overfill; leave enough space for the cake to rise while baking.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
- Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for about two hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on the cakes in the final stages. If the tops start to brown too quickly, cover them lightly with foil.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans on a cooling rack for about 15 minutes. Carefully remove them from the pans and let them cool completely before slicing.
- Enjoy your Claxton Fruit Cake as a delightful treat during festive celebrations or as a special dessert for family gatherings.
Notes
Creative Ways to Serve This Fruit Cake
If you want to add some twist and make your Claxton Fruit Cake even more special, here are some creative ideas for serving it:
- Slice and Serve with Cheese: Pair thin slices of Claxton Fruit Cake with gourmet cheeses. This combination provides a balance of sweet and savory flavors that can delight any palate.
- Use as a Base for Trifle: Layer pieces of fruit cake with custard, whipped cream, and fresh fruit in a trifle dish. This dessert is visually striking and offers a variety of textures and flavors.
- Fruit Cake French Toast: Dip slices of fruit cake in a classic French toast mixture of eggs, milk, and spices, then pan-fry them. Enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch.
- Serve with Ice Cream: Make Fruit Cake even better by adding a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream. The creaminess pairs perfectly with the cake’s richness.
- Grill and Glaze: Lightly grill slices of fruit cake and brush with a glaze made from warmed apricot jam or honey. This treatment intensifies the flavors while adding a caramelized touch.
- Serve with Spiced Tea or Mulled Wine: The warm spices in Claxton Fruit Cake go great with a cup of spiced tea or mulled wine, making the meal even better, especially in cold weather.
Storage and Shelf Life
Keeping your Claxton Fruit Cake stored properly helps it stay tasty and fresh. Here are some simple tips for storing your fruit cake:
- Wrapping: Wrap the fruit cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to preserve moisture and prevents the cake from drying out.
- Refrigeration: Store the wrapped cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can extend its freshness for up to 2 months.
- Freezing: To keep the cake for a long time, wrap it tightly and put it in a strong freezer bag. A frozen fruit cake can last up to a year.
- Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the fruit cake within a few days, it can be stored at room temperature. Keep it in a cool, dry place, ensuring it’s well-wrapped.
By following these easy steps, you can enjoy your Claxton Fruit Cake for months after baking, keeping it just as tasty as the day you made it.
Tips for Making the Perfect Old Fashioned Claxton Fruit Cake
If you want to make your own Claxton Fruit Cake, here are some helpful tips to ensure it turns out perfect:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Choose the best dried and candied fruits, fresh nuts, and spices. Good ingredients really improve the taste and texture.
- Soak Fruits: For added moisture and flavor depth, consider soaking your fruits overnight in your choice of brandy, or fruit juice before mixing. This also aids in developing rich flavors in the cake.
- Temperature Check: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and an even bake.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking pans with parchment paper to make it easier to take the cake out and stop it from sticking, which helps keep the cake intact.
- Cool Gradually: Allow the cake to cool slowly to prevent it from drying out. A gradual reduction in temperature helps maintain the cake’s moisture.
- Flavor Maturation: Let the cake sit for at least a week after baking to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. Wrap it tightly and store it in a cool place during this time.
- Experiment with Spices: Customize the cake’s flavor by experimenting with a variety of spices, like allspice, cloves, and cardamom, to suit personal taste preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Old Fashioned Claxton Fruit Cake is a delightful and versatile dessert that offers both traditional charm and creative potential. By following the recommended preparation and storage tips, you can ensure that your fruit cake remains fresh and flavorful for months.
Whether you enjoy it as a simple treat or enhanced with imaginative serving ideas, this fruit cake is a timeless addition to any festive occasion. Embrace its rich flavors and savor the festive spirit it brings to your gatherings.
FAQ
How long does it take to make a Claxton Fruit Cake?
The preparation and baking time for a Claxton Fruit Cake usually takes about 3 to 4 hours. However, for best results, allow time for the fruits to soak beforehand and let the baked cake mature for at least a week to enhance its flavors.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Claxton Fruit Cake recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different nuts and dried fruits to suit your preferences.
Why is my fruit cake dry?
A fruit cake can turn out dry if it’s overbaked or if not enough liquid was used in the mixture. Make sure to check your cake with a skewer before the end of the baking time to ensure it remains moist. Additionally, soaking fruits beforehand and carefully measuring ingredients can help retain moisture.
Who sells Claxton Fruit Cake near me?
Claxton Fruit Cake is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Amazon, and various grocery stores. You can also find it through local bakeries and specialty food shops during the holiday season. Additionally, the official Claxton Fruit Cake website offers options for online ordering to ensure it reaches your location conveniently.
How should I store my Claxton Fruit Cake after opening?
After opening, wrap the Claxton Fruit Cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container. For longer freshness, keep it in the fridge for up to 2 months. You can also freeze it to make it last up to a year.
What is the weight of a typical Claxton Fruit Cake?
A typical Claxton Fruit Cake weighs approximately one pound.
Is Claxton Fruit Cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Claxton Fruit Cake has different nuts and wheat, which might not be good for people with nut or gluten allergies. It’s also important to look at the ingredient list for any dietary issues.
Does Claxton Fruit Cake contain alcohol?
Claxton Fruit Cake may contain alcohol if the fruits are soaked in brandy or another spirit during preparation, as mentioned in the recipe tips. However, commercially produced Claxton Fruit Cakes typically do not contain alcohol unless specified.
