FOOD NEWS
What Makes A Japanese Fruitcake Different From The Classic?
By Corin MJ Bae
With cinnamon-spiced cake layers separated by citrusy fruit filling, the Japanese fruitcake is a much lighter and potentially more appetizing alternative to the dense fruitcake.
Japanese fruitcake is not Japanese or fruity at all. It is actually a Southern holiday delicacy that's more along the lines of a classic American layer cake than anything else.
While individual recipes may vary, the basic components of a Japanese fruitcake start with a light cake layer that's primarily flavored with butter and vanilla.
Then, there's a dark cake layer made by adding warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg and a jam-like fruit filling, most often made with citrus-based fruits and coconut.
The only way it resembles the classic fruitcake is via the raisins that are often included in the dark cake layer alongside the warming spices.
Overall, it seems like a much lighter and sweeter cake to end holiday meals with, but it won't be nearly as sturdy or long-lasting as a classic fruitcake.