Lithuanian Aged Fruitcake -- Brandintas Kalėdinis Džiovintų Vaisių Pyragas

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option with a similar texture.

rum

🥗Healthier: apple juice

💰Cheaper: white grape juice

Apple juice adds sweetness without alcohol.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey is a natural sweetener that can enhance flavor.

dried fruits

🥗Healthier: fresh fruits

💰Cheaper: canned fruits

Fresh fruits can be used for a lighter version.

Soak fruits and nuts in the brandy overnight, covered, stirring sometimes.

Preheat oven to 140C/275 F.

Cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy.

Lightly beat eggs.

Whisk the flour with the spices and the baking powder.

Mix in the eggs and flour into the butter mixture a little at a time, alternating.

Mix in the fruit and nut mixture.

Line a springform 24cm (10 inch) pan with baking paper or grease with butter and flour. Add batter and level off.

Bake for 1.5-2 hours until nicely brown on top and a fork or toothpick comes out clean.

Cool.

Wrap in cheesecloth and sprinkle with brandy.

Wrap in foil. Every 2 weeks unwrap foil and add more brandy.

Before serving let air out for half an hour and decorate.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens