Forget everything you think you know about dense, heavy fruitcakes. This Mexican fruit cake, or pastel de frutas, is a revelation! Light, moist, and bursting with the vibrant flavors of tropical fruits and warming spices, it's a far cry from its holiday counterparts. Imagine a cake so infused with citrus and cinnamon that each bite transports you to a sun-drenched Mexican market. The perfect balance of sweet and subtly spicy, this cake is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. It’s a wonderful addition to any celebration, from Cinco de Mayo to a casual weekend gathering.
This recipe delivers a delightful cake that's both festive and incredibly delicious. The secret lies in the careful balance of ingredients and a simple baking technique that ensures a consistently moist and flavorful result. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own unforgettable Mexican fruit cake.
Tools Needed
- 9x13 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or mixer
Ingredients
- Sugar: 2 cups
- Self-rising flour: 2 cups
- Eggs: 2
- Chopped nuts (pecans): 1 cup
- Crushed pineapple (with juice): 16 ounces (20 ounce can, reduce 1/4 cup)
- Powdered sugar: 2 cups
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Butter: 1 stick
- Cream cheese: 8 ounces
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Cake Batter
- Mix sugar, flour, eggs, nuts, and pineapple in a bowl.
Step 2. Bake and Frost the Cake
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 9x13 baking dish.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.
- While cake is baking, prepare cream cheese frosting by beating together powdered sugar, vanilla, butter, and cream cheese until smooth.
- Frost the warm cake immediately after removing it from the oven.
Step 3. Decorate and Cool
- Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top (optional).
- Let the cake cool slightly before chilling in the refrigerator.
Read more: No-Bake Carlota de Limon: Easy Mexican Lime Icebox Cake Recipe
Tips
- Use a paper towel to clean up any excess batter from the edges of the baking dish.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite fruits, keeping in mind that softer fruits like peaches or mangoes may require slightly less baking time.
2. How can I store leftover Mexican fruit cake?
Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. It's also delicious frozen!
3. What if my cake is dry?
This is usually due to overbaking. Next time, check for doneness a few minutes earlier and use a toothpick to test for moist crumbs instead of completely dry ones.
This easy Mexican fruit cake is the perfect sweet treat to celebrate Cinco de Mayo or any occasion. Its vibrant flavors and moist texture are sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and get baking – enjoy!