Nov 05, 2007
Karen, thanks for standing up for fruitcake!! Indeed, this is nothing like the heavy brick of fruitcake that comes in a cardboard box. I've found that the best way to get people to try this delicious cake is to not tell them it's a fruitcake. Call it cake or molasses cake or gingerbread or whatever. Once they try it, you can admit the truth-- it's fun to watch the reactions. The only significant change I'd suggest to this fabulous recipe is to let sit for longer if you can. If you can make the cake a year in advance, do so. Just store it per the recipe and add a bit rum every month or so, and you'll be treated to an amazing dessert when the time is right. Anyone who enjoys this recipe should also consider making Simnel cake, typically served at Eastertime. It's a different sort of fruitcake, made with marzipan, and equally delicious. Additionally, I'd suggest substituting Demerara sugar for brown sugar, if possible. Demerara sugar isn't much more expensive, and it's often found in regular grocery stores next to the other sugars. It is a light brown sugar with larger crystals, and it provides a stickier texture and a really rich aroma.
—ABoston
