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    Dried Fruit Cake

    Published: Jan 8, 2018 · Modified: Oct 27, 2023 · by Renana · I may get commission for purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

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    Home » Recipes » Tu BiShvat » Dried Fruit Cake

    Introducing a delightful dried fruit cake recipe that embodies the essence of Tu Bishvat, the festival of trees and fruits. Bursting with the natural sweetness of dried fruits and a touch of warm cinnamon, this cake is a perfect way to celebrate the occasion. With a handful of simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delectable treat to share with loved ones.

    fruit cake on a platter

    Tu BiShvat

    When Tu BiShvat is coming its time for me to share a fruitcake recipe to celebrate this lovely, fruity holiday.

    During this holiday, we celebrate the New Year of the trees and consume loads and loads of fruits and vegetables that grow especially in the Holy Land--Israel. The almond trees bloom this time of year so dishes with almonds are also considered as Tu Bishvat festive foods.

    The name of this holiday comes from the Hebrew date- Tu is 15 in Hebrew letters with numerical values. Shvat is the Hebrew month the holiday occurs in, so the name is actually the Jewish date of the holiday.

    Another custom of this holiday is planting trees. This is a very nice tradition in my opinion as it connects us to nature and agriculture. As described in this blog post – "Tu B’Shevat is a time to celebrate the natural world by eating its bounty and planting trees."

    Tu BiShvat Foods

    Traditionally we eat dried fruits in Tu Bishvat and especially the 7 species mentioned in the Torah (shivat haminim) that Israel is blessed with- figs, dates, grapes, olives, wheat, barley and pomegranate. In Tu Bishvat, you want to eat new fruits or at least some of the 7 species.

    Around Tu Bishvat, you can find dried fruit packages in every super market across Israel and instead of eating them as they are, I cut them and created a cake that will wow my family and honor the tradition!

    variety of dried fruits on a plate

    Tu BiShvat Fruitcake

    This easy fruitcake is also quick to make and you only need a bowl and a spoon to make it. The cake is parve (dairy free) and can be vegan too if you change the eggs to ½ cup of applesauce. The dried fruits I used in the cake are dates, figs, raisins, pineapple, apricots, coconut, cranberries and papaya. This mix is widely available in Israel around Tu BiShvat.

    The recipe yields 1 loaf and you can double the ingredients for a bigger cake.

    dried fruit cake with powdered sugar topping on a platter

    Tips for making a delicious dried fruit cake:

    Quality Dried Fruits

    Use high-quality dried fruits to ensure the best flavor and texture in your cake. You can mix and match your favorite dried fruits like raisins, apricots, figs, and dates for a varied flavor profile.

    Mix Thoroughly

    When combining the ingredients, make sure to mix them thoroughly to create a well-blended batter. You want the dried fruits and flour to be evenly distributed.

    Experiment with Spices

    Besides cinnamon, feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom to add depth to the flavor.

    Grease the Tin

    Make sure to grease the loaf tin well to prevent the cake from sticking. You can also use parchment paper for easy removal.

    Don't Overbake

    Keep a close eye on the cake as it bakes. Overbaking can result in a dry cake, so check for doneness with a toothpick. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

    Enjoy Fresh

    Dried fruit cake is best when it's fresh, so savor it on the day you bake it. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container for a few days.

    FAQS

    Is dried fruit cake the same as fruitcake?

    Dried fruit cake is similar to traditional fruitcake, but it often contains a higher proportion of dried fruits compared to candied fruits and nuts. The focus in a dried fruit cake is on the natural flavors of the dried fruits.

    How should I store a dried fruit cake?

    Store your dried fruit cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It's best when consumed within a few days of baking. If you plan to store it for a longer period, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze it.

    Can I make a vegan or gluten-free version of dried fruit cake?

    Yes, you can adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences. For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce or any other egg substitutes. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.

    What occasions are dried fruit cakes typically served for?

    Dried fruit cakes are commonly enjoyed during holidays like Tu Bishvat, but they are versatile and can be served on various occasions, including as a dessert or snack.

    Can I add nuts to my dried fruit cake?

    Yes, you can add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to your dried fruit cake for added texture and flavor. Mix them into the batter along with the dried fruits.

    More cake recipes to try:

    You must use the category name, not a URL, in the category field.

    If you are looking for other recipes for Tu Bishvat, check out Veena's glace mixed fruit bundt cake, my almond cookie recipe or my fruit sushi recipe. They are festive and yummy too!

    Bake this dried fruit cake today!

    So, let's preheat the oven and embark on a journey of flavors that will fill your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy. It's time to bake a cake that's not only delicious but also a beautiful ode to the bountiful gifts of nature. Here is the recipe for this easy Tu Bishvat fruitcake:

    fruit cake on a platter

    Dried Fruit Cake

    Celebrate the New Year of the trees (Tu BiShvat) with this yummy and dairy free fruit cake.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 40 minutes mins
    Total Time 45 minutes mins
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine Jewish
    Servings 1 loaf cake

    Ingredients
      

    • 3 cups cut dried fruits
    • 1 cup flour
    • 1 tablespoon baking powder
    • 3 eggs
    • ½ cup sugar
    • ¼ cup olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

    For garnish:

    • 2 tablespoon powdered sugar

    Instructions
     

    • Heat the oven to 180°C / 350°F with the fan.
    • In a mixing bowl, mix all ingredients well.
    • Grease a loaf tin.
    • Pour the cake batter into the tin.
    • Bake for 40 minutes.
    • Sprinkle with powdered sugar.
    • Have a piece and a Happy Tu Bishvat!

    Video

    Keyword dried fruit cake, dried fruit recipies, jewish cakes, Tu BiShvat, tu bishvat foods
    fruitcake with powdered sugar topping on a platter
    piece of cake on a pink plate

    More Tu BiShvat Recipes

    • orange cake
      Delicious and Easy Orange Bread
    • Roasted Fennel
    • Savory Cheese Pesto Palmiers
    • Easy Cinnamon Palmiers Cookies

    Filed Under: Cakes, Desserts, Holidays, Tu BiShvat

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    Renana Spiegel Levkovich

    Hello!

    I'm Renana and I share kosher recipes for Shabbat, yummy parve desserts, and Jewish holiday recipes - and so much more. I share easy kosher recipes for the whole family, along with some pretty great photographs, and easy-to-follow instructions. Enjoy!

    Contact me for any question →


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