There are a few different cakes that contain fruit as an ingredient. Some of the most common fruit cakes include:
Fruitcake
Fruitcake is perhaps the most well-known cake that contains fruit. Traditional fruitcakes are made with dried fruits like raisins, currants, prunes, dates, and figs. Some recipes also include candied fruits like orange peel, lemon peel, cherries, pineapple, etc. The cake often has a very dense texture due to the dried fruits. Brandy, rum, or other spirits are sometimes used to soak the dried fruits before baking. Fruitcakes are often associated with Christmas time but can be enjoyed year round.
Carrot Cake
Carrot cake contains grated carrots as well as other fruits like crushed pineapple, raisins, and/or dried cranberries. The carrots provide moisture and natural sweetness. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice are also commonly used. The cake has a texture similar to banana bread. Cream cheese frosting is a popular topping for carrot cake.
Banana Cake
This cake is made with mashed bananas which provide moisture and flavor. Chopped walnuts are also commonly added. Some recipes incorporate other fruits like crushed pineapple or berries. Banana cake has a dense, moist texture and often uses spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake
This cake is made by topping a pineapple ring cake batter and baking it. When inverted onto a plate after baking, the pineapple ends up on top. Other fruits like cherries or maraschino cherries can be added as well. The fruit on top creates a pretty presentation.
Cranberry Cake
Fresh or dried cranberries can be used in this cake. The berries provide tartness to balance out the sweetness. Orange zest is also commonly added. The cake is sometimes topped with a cream cheese frosting or glaze.
Lemon Blueberry Cake
This cake combines fresh blueberries and lemon for a bright, summery flavor. Lemon zest and juice are used in the batter. The acidity of the lemon works well with the sweet berries. A lemon glaze or buttercream frosting can be used on top.
Strawberry Shortcake
This is a white or yellow butter cake which sliced strawberries are served on top of. Whipped cream is also added. The fruit juices soak into the tender cake. Sponge cake or biscuits can be used in place of shortcake too.
Black Forest Cake
This elegant European cake features chocolate sponge cake layers, whipped cream, and cherries. It is coated with chocolate shavings or ganache. The cherries provide a pop of tart flavor and also contribute moisture.
Hummingbird Cake
This Southern cake contains mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans or walnuts. It has plenty of spice from cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. The cream cheese frosting balances the fruits and spices.
Applesauce Cake
Applesauce is used as a substitute for oil or other fats in this moist cake. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice are usually included. Raisins or chopped apples can also be added to boost the fruit flavor.
Conclusion
There are so many delicious cakes that incorporate fruit in creative ways. The fruits add natural sweetness, moisture, fiber, and vibrant flavor. Some of the most popular fruit cakes include traditional fruitcake, carrot cake, banana cake, pineapple upside down cake, cranberry cake, lemon blueberry cake, strawberry shortcake, black forest cake, hummingbird cake, and applesauce cake. Fruits ranging from tropical like pineapple and banana to berries, citrus, and dried fruits can be used. The next time you bake a cake, consider adding some fruit in for extra nutrition and scrumptious taste.