Costco Fruit Cake

Name: Costco Fruit Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-484129H11M48S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound pecans, chopped; 1 pound dates, pitted and chopped; ½ pound candied cherries (red and green); ½ pound candied pineapple (red and green or yellow); ¾ cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1 tablespoon rum, bourbon, or brandy)

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

February 14, 2025

Updated:

February 14, 2025

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The Costco Fruit Cake Recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional dessert that might surprise even the skeptics. I remember the first time I tried fruit cake. I was unsure about it, with its dense texture and rich flavors. But then I tried a slice from Costco, and my mind changed completely! It was moist, flavorful, and packed with the perfect medley of fruits and nuts. So, I decided to recreate that experience at home. In this post, I’ll guide you through making a homemade version of that delicious Costco fruit cake. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or just want a cozy treat, this recipe will surely bring joy to your kitchen. So, let’s gather around and bake something special together!

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Why This Recipe Works

The Costco Fruit Cake Recipe merges the timeless appeal of fruit cake with a modern twist. With classic ingredients and straightforward techniques, this recipe guarantees a satisfying experience that remains true to rich culinary traditions while being approachable for cooks of all skill levels. It’s all about creating a cake that’s not overly dry or too sweet but perfectly moist and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Costco Fruit Cake Recipe

Whether you’re a devoted fruit cake lover or skeptical about this holiday classic, this Costco Fruit Cake Recipe promises to win you over. Imagine sweet, candied fruits and crunchy pecans enveloped in a soft, cake-like texture. This treat feels more like dessert than a traditional fruit cake. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy evening in. You’re going to love how simple it is to make and how everyone will enjoy its rich flavors!

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking a wonderful fruit cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound pecans, chopped
1 pound dates, pitted and chopped
½ pound candied cherries (red and green)
½ pound candied pineapple (red and green or yellow)
¾ cup granulated sugar
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1 tablespoon rum, bourbon, or brandy)

Preparing the Perfect Costco Fruit Cake

Preheat the Oven for Success

To start, set your oven to a low temperature of 250°F. This slow baking process is essential for achieving a perfect texture. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the cake doesn’t dry out.

Create a Steaming Environment

Next, place a pan filled one-third with boiling water on the bottom rack of your oven. This addition will create steam during baking, which keeps the cake moist and flavorful. It really helps to anchor those rich flavors in every bite!

Prepare Your Pans

Now, let’s prepare the pans. Spray two 9-inch loaf pans with cooking spray. For added protection, line them with wax or parchment paper, and give them another light spray. This will help the cakes release easily once they’re done baking.

Mix the Fruity Delight

In a large bowl, combine the chopped dates and nuts. These will form the delightful foundation of your cake’s texture and flavor. You’ll want to mix things gently; after all, we want to keep those beautiful chunks intact.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt over the fruit and nut mixture. It’s important to use your hands to mix them well now, ensuring the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout. That way, the flavors blend seamlessly as it bakes.

Incorporate the Eggs and Flavor

Grab another bowl and beat the eggs until light. Add the vanilla extract or your choice of spirit, then pour this mixture over the fruit and nut blend. Get in there and mix with your hands – it’s okay if it’s a bit messy! The key is to ensure everything is fully combined, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Fill and Press the Batter

Now it’s time to fill the pans! Spoon the fruit cake batter into the prepared loaf pans, pressing gently to eliminate large air bubbles. This will help create a tighter, denser cake that slices beautifully.

Baking: Time to Rise and Shine

Once you’ve filled the pans, it’s time for them to rise! Bake the loaves in your preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Enjoy that sweet aroma filling your kitchen while they bake. It’s such a delightful scent, making the wait worth it!

Cooling Period

Finally, once baked, allow the fruit cake to cool in the pans for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Letting it cool properly will ensure the texture remains just right.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve your Costco Fruit Cake, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This pairing enhances the flavors and gives a comforting finish to the dessert. Pair it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for the ultimate indulgent experience!

Tips for Success

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs. This small step makes for better incorporation.
Feel free to modify the types of dried fruits based on your personal preferences. Experimenting can lead to a unique take on this classic!

Variations

If you want to mix things up a bit, consider adding chopped walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. You could also substitute some of the candied fruits with dried fruit for a healthier version. It’s all about finding what you love most!

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. This way, you can enjoy your Costco Fruit Cake anytime!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of candied?
It’s best to avoid fresh fruits as they can add extra moisture, altering the cake’s texture.

2. How do I know when the fruit cake is done?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! This fruit cake claims enhanced flavor when it rests for a few days.

4. How can I adjust the sweetness?
Feel free to reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake.

5. Is it necessary to use alcohol in this recipe?
No, the alcohol is optional but adds depth to the flavor. You can easily substitute it with extra vanilla extract if preferred.

Crafting this Costco Fruit Cake Recipe not only connects us with culinary nostalgia but also fosters community through shared meals and celebrations. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this fruit cake will surely become a cherished part of any festive table. Enjoy each bite knowing you’ve created something truly special!

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Costco Fruit Cake

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Costco Fruit Cake Recipe

Ingredients