How to Store Fruitcake

How a fruitcake is stored determines how long it will last.

According to Whats Cooking America, fruitcake reached its popularity peak between 1837 and 1901 but dates back as far as Roman times. Today, fruitcake is considered a Christmas dessert. Fruitcake is one of the few cakes that can be stored for months and still retain its fresh, rich flavor. Pantry storage, refrigerating and freezing are three storing options, each with a specific length of time that the fruitcake will remain edible.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Tin foil
• Plastic wrap
• Airtight container

1. Measure an appropriately sized sheet of tin foil and wrap tightly around the fruitcake. The tin foil should completed cover the fruitcake, with each end tucked under to prevent air from reaching the fruitcake. For best results, repeat these steps to double wrap the fruitcake. Store in your pantry or cabinet up to one month.

2. Wrap the fruitcake in plastic wrap. Tear off a large piece of plastic wrap and place the fruitcake at one end. Tuck the end over the fruitcake and roll it forward. After each roll, tuck the sides around the fruitcake and roll forward again. Continue rolling forward and tucking the sides in until the entire fruitcake is wrapped. Store in the refrigerator up to six months.

3. Tear off a piece of plastic wrap that will cover the fruitcake once. Make sure the wrap covers all of the fruitcake and the ends are pressed down firmly. Place it in an airtight container and attach the lid. Make sure the lid is completely closed. Store in the freezer for 12 months.

Tips & Warnings

• Fruitcake can be stored in the freezer for longer than one year if it is wrapped in a cloth soaked in alcohol, such as brandy.

References

• What's Cooking America: History of Fruitcake
• Still Tasty: Fruitcake Storage
• Eilen Berger Bakery: Tips for Storing a Fruitcake

Resources

• All Recipes: Fruitcake Recipes
• Whats Cooking America: Fruitcake Secrets Q&A