"This fruitcake is actually Fleurette's, one of our most loyal customers and subscribers. But it tastes exactly like the one my mother made, and I would steal bites of it from the cold room several weeks before the holidays..." -- François

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Fruitcake: a Quebec festive classic

A tradition deeply rooted in our Festivals

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

British origins adapted to Quebec tastes

While fruitcake's origins lie in British desserts like plum pudding, Quebec has adapted it by incorporating local ingredients and preservation techniques to ensure it's perfect when eaten. In Quebec, it's often made with unique touches, such as maple syrup and careful attention to the balance between moistness and richness.

A gourmet pleasure to savor and share

Making fruitcake in Quebec also means immersing yourself in a family activity steeped in tradition. This cake, wrapped in aluminum foil and kept refrigerated, gets better with age. Quebec families often have their own recipes passed down from generation to generation, 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
🍽️ Servings	2 cakes (about 12 servings each)

🎅 Ingredients

625 ml (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour 5 ml (1 tsp) baking soda 2 lightly beaten eggs 1 jar of ED Smith mincemeat garnish 1 can (14 oz) Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk 250 ml (1 cup) chopped candied fruit 250 ml (1 cup) chopped red candied cherries 250 ml (1 cup) chopped green candied cherries 250 ml (1 cup) coarsely chopped walnuts 250 ml (1 cup) whole candied cherries (keep a little juice to brush on the cake) 5 ml (1 tsp) 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 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 cool for 5 minutes, then unmold . Brush the cakes with the cherry juice and maple syrup. Wrap in aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator, freezer, or cold room.

Note: This cake will keep for several months, so it can 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 you customize the ingredients of the fruitcake?

Absolutely! This cake is very flexible. You can substitute dried cranberries or chopped apricots for the candied cherries for a more tart touch. For nuts, consider almonds or hazelnuts if you prefer a different taste. Adding a hint of spices 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 it to fully develop its flavors. The longer you let it rest, the better it will be. Store it in a cool place and well wrapped to keep it moist and flavorful.

Can this cake be given as a gift?

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

How to serve this fruitcake?

It's best enjoyed as is, but you can also serve it slightly warmed with a touch 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. Be sure to wrap it in several layers of aluminum foil or an airtight bag before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for several months and can be enjoyed at any time!

Origins and characteristics of Quebec fruit cake