On a quiet afternoon, the scent of baking bread fills my home, transporting me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. That comforting aroma is about to evolve into something truly festive with Brenda Gantt’s Moist Southern Fruit Cake—a recipe that embodies Southern charm while flipping the script on the traditional fruit cake. This delightful dessert is packed with vibrant candied fruits and crunchy pecans, making it not only a flavorful holiday centerpiece but also a perfect giftable treat. The best part? It requires minimal effort and can be made ahead, allowing the flavors to deepen over time. Are you ready to bring warmth and sweetness to your holiday gatherings with this delicious cake?

Why is this Fruit Cake unforgettable?

Southern Charm: This cake captures the essence of Southern hospitality, making it the ideal centerpiece for holiday celebrations or cozy gatherings.
Giftable Delight: Wrapped beautifully, it becomes a heartfelt gift perfect for friends and loved ones.
Make-Ahead Magic: Whip it up in advance to savor rich flavors that deepen over time, saving you precious moments during busy seasons.
Unique Twists: With options to customize the fruits and nuts, it caters to various tastes, ensuring everyone loves it.
Moist and Flavorful: Unlike traditional fruit cakes, this recipe yields a dense, moist treat that’s bursting with vibrant flavors—it’s a delicious departure from the ordinary! Try pairing it with a hot cup of coffee for a comforting treat, or explore other festive recipes like Moist Strawberry Shortcake for added variety this season.

Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake Ingredients

Discover what makes this cake so delightful!

For the Fruit Mixture

Candied Cherries – Sweetness and color; substitute with dried cranberries if you want a tart twist.
Candied Pineapple – Adds moisture and tropical flavor; consider adding candied orange peel for extra zest.
Raisins – Natural sweetness and chewy texture; can be replaced with chopped dates or prunes as an alternative.
Pecans – Crunch and nutty flavor; can be omitted or substituted with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.

For the Batter

Flour – Structure of the cake; use a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Baking Powder – Leavening agent to help the cake rise; no substitutions needed here.
Salt – Enhances flavor; keep it as is to balance the sweetness.
Butter – Provides richness and moistness; use unsalted butter for better control over flavor.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps retain moisture; feel free to reduce sugar by up to 1/4 cup for a less sweet version.
Eggs – Act as a binding agent and add richness; no substitutes are recommended.
Vanilla Extract – Optional flavor enhancer for those who prefer a cleaner taste.
Cinnamon – Warm spice that adds holiday flavor; omit if you prefer a simpler cake.

This delightful Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake is a beloved holiday dessert you’ll enjoy baking and sharing!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mixture
Begin by tossing the candied cherries, candied pineapple, raisins, and pecans in a bowl with a sprinkle of flour. This ensures that the fruits and nuts are well-coated and helps prevent them from sinking in the batter. Set the mixture aside while you preheat your oven, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow baking temperature is crucial for achieving the dense, moist texture of the Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake. While the oven is warming up, generously grease two loaf pans or a bundt pan with butter. This prevents the cake from sticking and makes for an easy release once baked.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a pale color and airy texture—this step adds richness and moisture to your fruit cake.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Flavorings
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and optional cinnamon, mixing well until everything is combined smoothly. The batter will become creamy and fragrant, giving you a glimpse of the delightful flavors to come in the Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake.

Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are well-blended, which is vital for proper rising and flavor distribution throughout the Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients, taking care to avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Fold in the Fruit Mixture
Gently fold in the prepared fruit and nut mixture into your batter using a spatula. This process should be soft and careful to maintain the air you’ve incorporated in previous steps. The floured fruits will distribute evenly throughout the batter, adding vibrant colors and textures to your cake, ready to create a wonderful holiday treat.

Step 7: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Pour the combined batter into your prepared loaf pans or bundt pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake. Make sure to divide the batter evenly if using two pans. This allows for uniform cooking, helping the Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake to rise evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown finish.

Step 8: Bake the Cake
Carefully place your pans in the preheated oven and bake for 2 to 2½ hours. Keep an eye on the cakes, and if they brown too quickly, shield them with aluminum foil. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating that the mixture is set and ready to enjoy.

Step 9: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 15-20 minutes. After this cooling period, carefully transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows the flavors to develop further, making your Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake an even more delightful treat, especially if allowed to rest overnight.

Step 10: Store and Serve
Wrap your cooled Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake tightly in cling film or foil to keep it fresh. For the best flavor experience, allow it to sit for at least a day before slicing. This cake can also be made ahead and even frozen for up to three months, ensuring your home is filled with the enchanting aroma of Southern charm whenever you choose to serve it.

Make Ahead Options

Making Brenda Gantt’s Fruit Cake ahead of time is a savvy way to simplify your holiday preparations! You can bake this delightful cake up to 1 week in advance; just wrap it tightly in cling film and foil to keep it fresh. Additionally, for even longer storage, freeze the wrapped cake for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor. It’s crucial to let the cake rest for at least 24 hours before slicing, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it just as delicious as the day you baked it. Enjoy the time-saving benefits this makes ahead option offers during the busy holiday season!

How to Store and Freeze Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake

Fridge: Store your wrapped cake in the fridge for up to 1 week. Tightly cover it with cling film and foil to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Freezer: This fruit cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Room Temperature: If you plan on enjoying the cake within a few days, room temperature storage is fine. Just place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days.

Reheating: For a warm slice, gently reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This brings back its moist texture and enhances its festive flavors perfectly.

Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make Brenda Gantt’s fruit cake truly your own!

Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy yet nut-free option that everyone can enjoy.
Tart Twist: Swap out the candied cherries for dried cranberries, adding a delicious tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Tropical Vibe: Use fresh pineapple instead of candied pineapple to infuse a refreshing tropical flavor that brightens the cake’s taste.
Spice It Up: For a little extra warmth, try adding a pinch of nutmeg in addition to the cinnamon, creating a comforting, aromatic spice blend.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. This keeps the cake moist while accommodating dairy-free diets.
Vegan-Friendly: For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce, and use a plant-based butter.
Extra Fruity: Mix in a variety of dried fruits like apricots or figs along with the traditional candied fruits for an explosion of flavors and textures.
Gifting Touch: Add a drizzle of homemade glaze with lemon juice and powdered sugar before serving, making it an irresistible giftable treat!

Enjoy experimenting as you bake, and don’t forget to share this delightful fruit cake with family and friends, just like the ones you can also try: Moist Strawberry Shortcake or the deliciously rich Black Velvet Cake!

Expert Tips for Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming, which creates a light texture in the cake.
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality candied fruit for the best flavor; fresh ingredients elevate the overall taste of your fruit cake.
Fruit Coating Trick: Coat the fruits and nuts in flour before adding them to the batter, which helps prevent them from sinking during baking.
Watch the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the baking process; if the cake browns too quickly, cover it with foil to protect the surface while it cooks through.
Patience is Key: Allow the cake to rest overnight for optimal flavor development. The flavors of your Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake will deepen beautifully over time.

What to Serve with Brenda Gantt’s Moist Southern Fruit Cake

Indulging in this cake brings back memories of joyous celebrations, and pairing it with the right accompaniments makes it even more special.

Fresh Brewed Coffee: The rich, bold flavors complement the sweetness of the fruit cake, making every bite a delightfully warm experience.
Hot Tea: Whether it’s a spiced chai or a soothing herbal blend, the warmth of tea enhances the cake’s spices while providing a cozy pairing.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For an unexpected twist, serve a savory side of creamy mashed potatoes to balance the cake’s sweetness during a festive meal.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, aromatic drink echoes the flavors of cinnamon in the cake and brings an additional layer of holiday cheer.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the dense, moist texture of the fruit cake for a delightful contrast.
Chocolate Fondue: A fun and interactive dessert option! Dip pieces of cake into melted chocolate for a rich and indulgent twist.

With these complementary offerings, your holiday gatherings will be filled with warmth, joy, and, of course, delicious flavors that make hearts sing.

Brenda Gantt’s Fruit Cake Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select candied fruits for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choosing high-quality candied fruits is key to a delicious fruit cake. Look for brightly colored fruits without dark spots or signs of hardening, as those can indicate age or poor quality. Make sure they’re chewy and fresh to ensure your Brenda Gantt Fruit Cake turns out moist and flavorful!

How should I store the fruit cake after baking?
Very good question! Once your fruit cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in cling film and then in aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week. This method locks in moisture, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully!

Can I freeze Brenda Gantt’s Fruit Cake, and how do I do it?
Of course! To freeze this delightful cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil—this double-wrapping prevents freezer burn, with a shelf life of up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What can I do if my fruit cake seems too dry or dense after baking?
No worries! If your cake turns out a bit dry, it might be due to over-mixing or over-baking. Always check for doneness a little early, and avoid mixing the batter too much after adding dry ingredients. To restore some moisture, try adding a simple syrup over the top or serve it with whipped cream or a drizzle of icing to enhance the taste!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for the fruit cake?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing this cake for someone with nut allergies, you can easily substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. Additionally, if you’re catering to gluten-free needs, use a gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert!

How can I make the fruit cake a bit less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the sugar in the recipe by up to 1/4 cup without affecting the texture too much. Just remember, that sweetness is part of what balances out the flavors of the candied fruits, so adjust according to your taste!