"This fruitcake is actually Fleurette's, one of our most loyal customers and subscribers. But it tastes exactly like the one my mother used to make, and from which I would sneak bites in the walk-in refrigerator several weeks before the holidays..." -- François

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Fruitcake: a festive Quebec classic

A tradition deeply rooted in our holidays

Fruitcake is one of Quebec's most delicious traditions, especially during the holiday season. This rich dessert, generously filled with candied fruit, nuts, and cherries, evokes warm memories of meals shared with family. It's a must-have that sits proudly on our Christmas tables, often prepared weeks in advance so its flavors have time to develop.

British origins adapted to Quebec tastes

While the origins of fruitcake can be traced back to British desserts like plum pudding, Quebec has adapted it by incorporating local ingredients and preservation techniques to ensure it's perfect when served. Here, it's often prepared with unique touches, such as maple syrup and a particular focus on balancing moistness and richness.

A gourmet treat to savor and share

Baking a fruitcake in Quebec is also about immersing yourself in a family activity steeped in tradition. This cake, wrapped in aluminum foil and kept refrigerated, only gets better with age. Quebec families often have their own recipes passed down through generations, each adding their own distinctive touch.

This recipe for Mom's fruitcake reflects all of that: a perfect combination of festive flavors, comforting textures, and pure nostalgia. It's a celebration of our roots and a nod to the importance of culinary traditions during the holidays in Quebec.

🎄 Summary
🔍 Information	Details
⏱️ Preparation time	20 minutes
🍳 Cooking time	60 minutes
⏲️ Total time	80 minutes
🔧 Difficulty level	Easy
🍽️ Portions	2 cakes (approximately 12 servings each)

🎅 Ingredients

625 ml (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour 5 ml (1 tsp) of baking soda 2 lightly beaten eggs 1 jar of ED Smith mincemeat garnish 1 can (14 oz) of Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk 250 ml (1 cup) of chopped candied fruit 250 ml (1 cup) chopped red candied cherries 250 ml (1 cup) chopped green candied cherries 250 ml (1 cup) of coarsely chopped nuts 250 ml (1 cup) of whole candied cherries (reserve some juice for brushing the cake) 5 ml (1 tsp) of maple syrup

🎁 Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease 2 loaf pans. Mix the flour and baking soda in a bowl. Set aside. Combine the eggs, mincemeat, sweetened condensed milk, candied fruit and nuts in another bowl. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix well. Pour the batter into the molds and bake for about 1 hour. Let it cool for 5 minutes, then unmold . Brush the cakes with cherry juice and maple syrup. Wrap in aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator, freezer or cold room.

Note: This cake can be stored for several months. It can therefore be made in advance.

🎄 Nutritional Information Per Serving
Nutrient	Quantity
Calories	350 kcal
Proteins	5 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Sugars	30 g
Fibers	3 g
Lipids	15 g
Sodium	150 mg

Frequently asked questions about fruitcake

Can the ingredients of the fruitcake be customized?

Absolutely! This cake is very flexible. You can replace the candied cherries with dried cranberries or chopped apricots for a more tart flavor. For the nuts, consider almonds or hazelnuts if you prefer a different taste. Adding a touch of spice like cinnamon or nutmeg can also enhance the flavor.

How far in advance can it be prepared?

Ideally, prepare this cake at least two weeks before the holidays to allow its flavors to fully develop. The longer it rests, the better it will be. Store it in a cool place and well wrapped to keep it moist and delicious.

Can this cake be given as a gift?

Yes, it's a great idea for a gourmet gift! Wrap it carefully in aluminum foil and add a pretty string or festive ribbon. You can even include a small card with a tasting suggestion to make it even more special.

How should this fruit cake be served?

It can be enjoyed as is, but you can also serve it slightly warmed with a dollop of whipped cream or caramel sauce for an even more indulgent version. Some like to enjoy it with tea or coffee to balance its richness.

Can the cake be frozen?

Yes, this cake freezes perfectly. Just be sure to wrap it in several layers of aluminum foil or in an airtight bag before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for several months and can be enjoyed whenever you like!

Origins and characteristics of Quebec fruitcake