Reinventing Grandma’s Yeast Fruit Cake

The sweet aroma of a freshly-baked Yeast Fruit Cake has been delighting taste-buds for generations. This classic cake is a true symbol of Grandma’s love and care since it’s a recipe that has been passed down through the ages. Whether you’re looking for a delicious dessert for a special occasion or an afternoon snack for the family, this Yeast Fruit Cake is sure to tantalize your taste buds and make you feel like you’re back in grandma’s kitchen.

The Perfect Combination of Sweet and Tart

This delicious cake combines a sweet yeast dough with tart fruit pieces and flavor from cinnamon, nutmeg, and anise. What sets this cake apart from other fruit dough recipes is the addition of yeast, which creates a fluffy texture by allowing the dough to rise higher and creates an airier design. As the cake bakes in the oven, the crust forms a thin shell to encase the moist interior, making it the perfect balance of crunchy and creamy.

A Delightful Treat with an International Flair

Yeast Fruit Cake is an Italian dessert that has spread throughout the world, thanks to the international influences and flavors that helped reshape the recipe. Each country, from Spain to France and even North America, has adapted this simple cake into its own unique version, but the basic recipe remains the same. By adding particular ingredients, such as nuts or chocolate chips, or by varying the size, you can make the same treat with a twist.

A Traditional Recipe with a Modern Twist

Grandma’s Yeast Fruit Cake has been a favorite of families for decades, but now you can enjoy the same delicious treat with a modern twist. For a more decadent dessert, try substituting dark chocolate for the traditional sponge cake and adding crushed hazelnuts instead of the more traditional walnuts. If you’re more inclined to keep things classic, simply top the cooked cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a dollop of freshly-whipped cream.

Dreaming of Yeast Fruit Cake

No matter what version you make, this Yeast Fruit Cake is sure to be a hit. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a comforting treat, pull out the recipe and give this traditional Italian dessert a try. Everyone will be sure to love it, no matter the occasion!

## Yeast Fruit Cake

Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 2/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butter or margarine
– 2 eggs
– 2 tablespoons warm water
– 2 cups diced fruit (such as pears, apples, peaches, pineapple, etc.)
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon ground anise
– 2/3 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioner’s sugar (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in the butter or margarine until the mixture resembles course crumbs.
3. Beat the eggs in small bowl then add to the flour mixture.
4. Add the warm water and stir until dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes or until it is soft and elastic.
6. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour.
7. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 13×9-inch rectangle.
8. In a medium bowl, mix together the diced fruit, cinnamon, nutmeg, anise, and walnuts.
9. Spread the fruit mixture over the dough, leaving a 1-inch gap around the edges.
10. Roll dough up lengthwise and seal the edges.
11. Place the rolled-dough on a greased baking sheet and let it rise for 30 minutes.
12. Preheat oven to 375°F.
13. Bake Yeast Fruit Cake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
14. Cool on a wire rack.
15. Sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar.

Enjoy!