Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe | Rich & Traditional
Craving a nostalgic holiday treat that’s rich, fruity, and packed with tradition? My Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe is just what you need. Loaded with candied cherries, pineapple, golden raisins, and crunchy walnuts, this cake is the perfect centerpiece for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any celebration. Baked slowly to perfection, it offers that classic Southern touch Claxton Fruit Cakes are famous for. Slice it thin, serve it with whipped cream, or enjoy it as-is; each bite is pure holiday joy.
Cake Preparation
Baking a Claxton Fruit Cake is all about layering flavors and textures. The key is to prepare each component carefully so that the fruits, nuts, and batter come together in harmony.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Before you begin, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). A low and slow bake ensures the fruit cake cooks evenly without drying out.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit & Nut Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
- Red and green candied cherries
- Candied pineapple
- Golden raisins
- Walnut halves
Mix them gently. This ensures every bite of the fruit cake is packed with a balanced amount of fruits and nuts.
Step 3: Cream the Shortening and Sugar
In another bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step helps create a smooth base for the batter.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Crack the five large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that rich, warm flavor.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix helps the cake rise evenly.
Step 6: Form the Batter
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture. Stir gently until a smooth batter forms. Don’t overmix; you want the batter to stay light.
Step 7: Fold in Fruits and Nuts
Pour the batter over the prepared fruit and nut mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold everything together until the fruits and nuts are coated evenly with batter.
Baking the Claxton Fruit Cake
Baking this fruit cake is all about patience. A low oven temperature allows the cake to bake slowly, keeping it moist and flavorful.
Step 8: Prepare the Pan
Grease a 10-inch tube pan thoroughly with butter or shortening. Lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking. This step is crucial since fruit cakes are dense and can cling to the pan.
Step 9: Fill the Pan
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top so it bakes uniformly.
Step 10: Bake Slowly
Place the cake into the preheated oven at 300°F (150°C). Bake for about 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 11: Cooling the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully turn it out onto a wire cooling rack. Let it cool completely to room temperature before slicing – this keeps the fruit cake firm and prevents crumbling.
Step 12: Slicing Tips
Claxton Fruit Cake is best enjoyed in thin slices. Use a sharp serrated knife for clean cuts. Each slice gives you the perfect balance of fruits, nuts, and moist cake.
Serving and Decoration
The beauty of a Claxton Fruit Cake is in its simplicity. But if you want to elevate it, here are my favorite serving ideas:
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the dense, fruity texture.
- Thin Slices: Always slice thin – each piece is packed with flavor, and this makes the cake go further at gatherings.
- Festive Garnish: Top with a few extra candied cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a holiday-worthy presentation.
- With Coffee or Tea: This rich cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, spiced tea, or even a dessert wine.
Storage Instructions
How to Keep Claxton Fruit Cake Fresh
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and flavorful for up to 1 week.
Refrigeration
For longer extended storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 1 month. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezing Fruit Cake
Claxton Fruit Cake also freezes beautifully. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Video
Notes
Required Kitchen Tools
Making a traditional fruit cake is much easier when you have the right tools at hand. Here’s what I recommend:- Large Mixing Bowls: One for your fruit and nut mixture, and another for the batter.
- Hand or Stand Mixer: To cream the shortening and sugar together until fluffy.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy is key for baking success.
- Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Perfect for folding the dense fruit and nut mixture into the batter.
- 10-inch Tube Pan (Greased): The classic pan for Claxton-style fruit cake.
- Cooling Rack: Ensures the cake cools evenly before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is Claxton Fruit Cake so famous?
Claxton Fruit Cake is iconic because it’s been a Southern holiday tradition for decades. Originating in Claxton, Georgia, these cakes are packed with candied fruits, nuts, and rich flavor, making them a Christmas staple across America.
Can I make Claxton Fruit Cake ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, fruit cakes taste even better after resting for a few days. The flavors meld together, creating a richer and deeper taste. Wrap your cake tightly and store it at room temperature or in the fridge until serving.
Can I substitute the nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely. While walnuts are traditional, you can use pecans, almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts. Just keep the overall measurement the same to maintain the right balance of fruit and cake.
How do I keep my fruit cake from drying out?
The secret is baking it slowly at a low temperature and wrapping it tightly once it cools. If you store it properly, Claxton Fruit Cake stays moist and flavorful for weeks.
What’s the best way to serve Claxton Fruit Cake?
Claxton Fruit Cake is best enjoyed in thin slices. You can serve it plain, with whipped cream, or alongside coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine for a festive touch.
Can Claxton Fruit Cake be frozen?
Yes! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 6 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best flavor.
Conclusion
And there you have it, my homemade Claxton Fruit Cake Recipe that brings Southern tradition straight to your kitchen. Packed with candied fruits, raisins, and crunchy walnuts, this cake is rich, festive, and perfect for the holidays. Whether you serve it at Christmas, gift it to loved ones, or enjoy it with a warm drink, this fruit cake will always be a crowd-pleaser.
The key to the perfect Claxton Fruit Cake is baking low and slow, slicing thin, and pairing it with a touch of cream or your favorite hot beverage. With proper storage, you can enjoy this cake well beyond the holiday season.
So, grab your mixing bowl, gather those festive fruits and nuts, and bake a holiday classic that’s been cherished for generations. Your homemade Claxton Fruit Cake will be just as delightful, if not more, than the store-bought favorite.
Sophia Smith is a passionate home baker and dessert enthusiast who loves sharing her favorite recipes, baking tips, and kitchen secrets. Through Roses Baking Passion, she inspires others to bake with love and creativity every day.
