WALNUT SPICE FRUITCAKE

Walnut Spice Fruitcake image

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 1h50m

Yield 12-16 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 cup raisins
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup red candied cherries, halved
1 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 cups sweetened applesauce
TOPPING:
24 red and/or green candied cherries
1/4 cup walnut halves

Steps:

In a large bowl, combine the raisins, walnuts and cherries; set aside. In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. , Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, cloves and nutmeg; add to creamed mixture alternatively with applesauce. Mix well. Stir in the raisin mixture. Transfer to a greased and floured 10-in. tube pan; top with whole cherries and walnut halves. , Bake at 325° for 1-1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack to cool completely. Wrap tightly and store in a cool, dry place.

Nutrition Facts :