It’s that time of year again when fruit cake starts making its way into our homes.
And, let’s be honest, it’s not always the easiest thing to know what to do with leftover fruit cake.
In this blog post, we’ll explore a few ideas for how to use up that last slice of fruitcake.
So, whether you’re looking for a creative way to repurpose your fruitcake or just want to get rid of it altogether.
Read on for some helpful tips.
Use it to make a trifle
Making trifles from your leftover fruit cake is a good idea.
You can make a traditional trifle by cutting the cake into small cubes and layering it in a dish with custard and fruit.
Alternatively, you can make individual portions like this by layering some fruit cake pieces with whipped cream or custard and fresh or canned fruit such as strawberries, mandarin oranges, or peaches.
Use it as a filling for smaller cakes
Not only can you use leftover fruit cake to make trifles, but it can also be used to fill smaller cakes.
Try mixing the fruit cake with buttercream or cream cheese then sandwiching two biscuits together before topping them off with more of the mixture.
Use it to make ice cream
Sprinkle some cake pieces with rum or Bailey’s Irish cream liqueur, then freeze them overnight.
By the next day, the cake pieces will be solid enough to put in your ice cream maker and churn into delicious ice cream.
Add any extra toppings such as chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts before serving.
It can be crumbled and added to muffin or pancake batter
For a simple idea, you can crumble the leftover cake over pancake or muffin batter before baking.
You can also try stirring it into boiling puddings to add extra texture and flavor.
It can be frozen for later use
Any leftover cake can be frozen for later use.
Simply wrap the cakes securely in aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container or plastic bag.
It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
It’s good to know that you don’t have to wait until Christmas to enjoy this holiday treat.
It can be eaten as is
Despite what you may hear, fruit cake can actually taste quite delicious when eaten as is.
However, if that’s not your cup of tea then there are lots of other ways to enjoy it and get the most out of your leftover cake.
You can give it away as a gift
You can give away the cake as a festive holiday gift just by putting it in a nice tin or box with some ribbon.
It can be donated to a local food bank or homeless shelter
An easy way to give away is to donate it to a local food bank or homeless shelter.
This way, others can enjoy the delicious treat just as you have.
It can be given away as treats for school parties or class celebrations
Leftover fruit cake can also be used to create fun snacks that are perfect for children’s birthday parties or classroom activities.
Cut up the cake into cubes and have them sit on top of some colorful ice cream cones.
You can place it in a food dehydrator for making fruit leather
If you don’t have the time to make trifles or other festive treats from your leftover fruit cake, you can place it in a food dehydrator along with other fruits and vegetables.
This will help to dry out the cake and allow you to create fruit leather that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
What can I do with my dry fruit cake?
First, brush a little milk or cold water over the cake.
Then, put it in a preheated oven that is set to medium heat (around 350 degrees F or 175 degrees C).
Leave it in the oven for around 20 minutes or until it crisps. (source)
Can you moisten a dry fruit cake?
Yes, you can moisten a dry cake by brushing on simple syrup.
This will add moisture and sweetness to the cake.
You can also add flavor to the syrup with extracts or juice. (source)
How long will a fruit cake last without alcohol?
Fruitcakes without any alcohol should be consumed within a few days of baking or if frozen, within 6 months. (source)
Why is my fruit cake moist but crumbly?
A popular reason is because of the gluten in the flour you used.
Gluten is a protein that helps cakes become firm.
When there is not enough gluten in the cake, it becomes crumbly and moist. (source)
How do you store a fruit cake after baking?
It needs to be stored in airtight containers in a cool place, but not in the refrigerator or freezer.
Check them at least once a week.
If there is any mold, throw it out.
How do you cool a fruit cake overnight?
You can cool it overnight by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and leaving it on the counter or in the refrigerator. (source)
What goes well with fruit cake?
It is good with chees, tea, fizzy drinks, ice cream, and coffee.
How do you store alcohol in fruit cake?
You can store alcohol in fruit cake by wrapping the cake in brandy or wine-soaked towels.
Then you can wrap it in either plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Another way to store it is to bury the liquor-soaked cake in powdered sugar and place it in a tightly covered tin.
Should fruit cake be refrigerated?
The answer is, it depends.
Fruitcakes taste better when they are allowed to ripen for at least one month.
Once they are ready, you can store them in a cool place or in the fridge.
However, it’s important to remember to brush or spritz them with liquor every week to keep them moist and flavorful.
How do you store fruit cake in the fridge?
You can store a fruitcake in the fridge by wrapping it in plastic wrap, and then putting it inside an airtight container.
When you do this, your fruitcake should stay fresh for up to two months.
Conclusion
Fruit cake can be turned into a variety of delicious and practical dishes, which makes it an excellent holiday gift idea.
When you find yourself with leftovers this Christmas season, try one or more of the above food recipes to get the most out of your purchase.