Name: Delicious Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe You'll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 pound pecans (adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor); 1 pound dates, pitted and chopped (naturally sweet gems); 0.5 pound candied cherries (a burst of color and sweetness); 0.5 pound candied pineapple (enhances the tropical sweetness); 0.75 cup sugar (balances the flavors); 0.75 cup flour (provides structure); 0.5 teaspoon baking powder (helps the bars rise); 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt (enhances overall flavor); 3 large eggs (binds the ingredients together); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (infuses flavor); 1 tablespoon rum, bourbon, or brandy (optional for added depth)

As the scent of pecans and sweet dates fills my kitchen, I find myself reminiscing about the holiday gatherings of my childhood. It’s funny how food has a way of transporting us back in time, isn’t it? The Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe that I’m about to share has all the charm of those festive moments wrapped up in pecan date bars that are deceptively simple yet wholly satisfying.

Not only do these bars bring a delightful twist to the classic fruitcake, but their combination of flavors—from the chewy dates to the candied cherries—creates a medley that is perfect for anytime indulgence. Whether you’re looking for a treat to dazzle friends at a potluck or just something special to enjoy with afternoon tea, these bars are a solution. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick bake, you’ll create a dessert that leaves your guests asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that combines nostalgia with deliciousness!

Why is this Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe special?

Simplicity at its best: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is easy enough for anyone to master, even if you’re new to baking.

Rich, delightful flavor: The blend of sweet dates, crunchy pecans, and colorful candied fruit creates a taste symphony that’s both nostalgic and unique.

Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a cozy evening at home, or an afternoon treat, these bars will impress friends and family alike.

Quick to make: In just 30-35 minutes, you can have a batch of mouthwatering bars ready to satisfy your cravings!

Crowd-pleaser appeal: Serve these delightful treats at your next gathering and watch as they quickly disappear; everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!

These pecan date bars are a delicious alternative to traditional fruitcake, making them perfect for those who seek a new favorite dessert. Don’t forget to check out our other easy dessert recipes for more delightful ideas!

Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Ingredients

• Perfect for making scrumptious pecan date bars!

For the Base

1 pound pecans – adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet ingredients.
1 pound dates, pitted and chopped – these naturally sweet gems replace refined sugars and bring moisture to the bars.
½ pound candied cherries (red and green) – a burst of color and sweetness that makes these bars festive.
½ pound candied pineapple (red and green or yellow) – enhances the tropical sweetness and adds a chewy element.

For the Batter

¾ cup sugar – balances the flavors and contributes to the delightful caramelization during baking.
¾ cup flour – provides structure, ensuring the bars hold together beautifully.
½ teaspoon baking powder – helps the bars rise a bit for a light texture.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – a touch of salt enhances the overall sweetness and flavor profile.

For the Liquid Ingredients

3 large eggs – binds the ingredients together while adding rich flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 tablespoon rum, bourbon, or brandy – infuses a warm depth of flavor that complements the sweetness.

Now that you have all the elements ready, you’re just moments away from enjoying these delightful pecan date bars, a truly delicious take on the classic Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe!

How to Make Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the perfect stage for baking those pecan date bars until they’re golden brown and delicious.
Mix together the pecans, dates, candied cherries, and candied pineapple in a large bowl. Stir until all the ingredients are well distributed, creating a colorful and enticing mixture.
Combine the sugar, flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a separate bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that your bars have the right texture and balance of flavor.
Whisk the eggs and vanilla extract (or rum, bourbon, or brandy) in another bowl until smooth. This adds richness and flavor that will elevate the taste of your pecan date bars.
Blend the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients. Then gently fold in the fruit and nut mixture until everything is well combined. Make sure you don’t overmix; you want those lovely bits of fruit and nuts to shine through!
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure it’s level for even baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma will be irresistible!
Cool the bars in the dish before transferring them to a cutting board. Allow them to cool completely before slicing into delicious, generous bars.

Optional: Drizzle with a little melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the fruit and nut mixture up to 24 hours ahead, simply keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can combine the dry ingredients (sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt) in a separate bowl and refrigerate them for easy assembly. When you’re ready to bake, just whisk together the eggs and vanilla, mix everything, and pour it into a greased baking dish. This way, you’ll save precious time on busy weeknights while enjoying delicious pecan date bars that are just as delightful as freshly made!

Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Fruit Cake

Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality pecans and dates to enhance the flavor and texture of your pecan date bars.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of light and chewy ones.
Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before cutting. This ensures they hold their shape beautifully and prevents them from crumbling.
Customization Options: Feel free to swap out the candied fruits for your favorites or add a touch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor!
Check for Doneness: Remember that every oven is different. Keep an eye on the bars to prevent overbaking, which can lead to dryness. Test with a toothpick.
Storage Tips: Store your old fashioned fruit cake bars in an airtight container at room temperature, where they stay fresh and flavorful for several days!

What to Serve with Pecan Date Bars?

The delightful aroma of these bars perfectly complements a warm gathering, inspiring you to create a full, inviting meal.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, cold texture adds a cool contrast to the chewy bars, enhancing their sweetness with every bite.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the bars, creating a cozy pairing perfect for any afternoon.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing, vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brightens the plate and balances the rich sweetness of the bars beautifully.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A silky drizzle of warm caramel elevates the dessert experience, making every bite indulgently sweet.
Roasted Coffee: The rich, earthy notes of a good cup of coffee provide a wonderful backdrop, awakening the flavors of the bars and enhancing their enjoyment.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The contrast between the rich chocolate and the chewy bars creates an indulgent treat that will dazzle your guests.
Toasted Almonds: The slight crunch and nutty flavor of toasted almonds add another layer of texture that complements the pecans perfectly.
Bourbon Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream infused with bourbon provides a decadent touch, making every bar a special treat.
Sparkling Herb-infused Water: The refreshing bubbles mixed with fresh herbs cleanse the palate and make for a sophisticated beverage alongside dessert.

Prepare to create delightful combinations that turn your pecan date bars from simple treats into a memorable meal experience!

Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Variations

Feel free to explore these enticing twists and substitutions to make this recipe uniquely yours!

Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, making these bars suitable for everyone at the table.
Dried Fruit Boost: Add dried cranberries or apricots to the mixture for a burst of flavor and a chewy texture that complements the existing ingredients.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter to warm up the flavors, inviting nostalgia into each bite.
Vegan-Friendly: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of eggs, and substitute maple syrup for sugar for a natural sweetness.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks for a sweet chocolate surprise that blends beautifully with the fruit and nuts, enhancing the decadence of these bars.
Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the mixture for a refreshing brightness, lifting the flavor profile and adding a zesty zing.
Boozy Infusion: Experiment with different spirits, like whiskey or spiced rum, to add a layer of complexity and warmth that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Feel inspired? Customize these bars to fit your taste and watch them become a new family favorite!

Storage Tips for Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe

Room Temperature: Store the pecan date bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and chewy, perfect for casual snacking.

Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.

Freezer: To keep the bars for an extended period, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer warm pecan date bars, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, bringing back that delightful fresh-baked taste!

Old Fashioned Fruit Cake Recipe Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting dates?
Absolutely! Choose dates that are plump and moist, without any dark spots or dryness. Medjool dates are a fantastic choice because they’re sweet and have a rich flavor, perfect for these delicious pecan date bars!

How do I store leftover pecan date bars?
Very! Keep your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. If you’d like them to last longer, place them in the refrigerator where they’ll be good for about 1 week.

Can I freeze pecan date bars?
Certainly! To freeze, tightly wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then savor that delightful, fresh-baked taste.

What should I do if the bars are too crumbly after baking?
If you find your bars are crumbly, it may be due to overbaking or not enough binding from the eggs. Ensure you’re measuring the ingredients accurately and for the next time, try adding an extra egg to enhance the binding. Be sure to also check them a few minutes before the recommended baking time!

Are pecan date bars safe for people with nut allergies?
Not at all! These bars contain pecans, which are nuts—so they aren’t suitable for those with nut allergies. If you need an alternative, consider substituting the pecans with seeds, like sunflower seeds, to create a nut-free version that still provides crunch!

Can pets have a taste of pecan date bars?
Oh, it’s best to avoid giving them any of these bars. Ingredients like chocolate (if used as a drizzle) and sugar can be harmful to pets. Always stick to pet-safe treats, ensuring your furry friends stay safe while you enjoy your delicious pecan date bars!