Fruitcake

Fruitcake is a type of cake made with chopped candied or dried fruit, nuts, and spices, and optionally soaked in spirits. A cake that simply has fruit in it as an ingredient can also be colloquially called a fruitcake. In the United Kingdom, certain rich versions may be iced and decorated. Fruitcakes are often served in celebration of weddings and Christmas.

History

The earliest recipe from ancient Rome lists pomegranate seeds, pine nuts, and raisins that were mixed into barley mash. In the Middle Ages, honey, spices, and preserved fruits were added.

Varieties

Fruitcakes can vary in both taste and texture. The Scottish fruitcake, also known as Black Bun, is a traditional Scottish treat enjoyed at Hogmanay and New Year's Eve. The Italian fruitcake, Panettone, is a very light cake, often with candied fruits.

Popularity and Use

Despite its long history and many variations, the fruitcake has become a much-maligned confection in modern times. It is often the subject of humor and the phrase "nutty as a fruitcake" was derived from the high ratio of nuts to flour and sweetener.

See Also

• List of cakes
• List of desserts