National fruitcake day
December 27, Sunday
What is a fruitcake
A fruitcake is a dense sweet cake that includes:
* dried and candied fruits
* nuts
* spices
* sometimes alcohol, such as rum or brandy
The cake is known for being able to be stored for a very long time and even improving in flavor over time.
History and origins
The tradition of fruitcakes dates back to Ancient Rome, where bread with pomegranate and nuts was prepared. In the Middle Ages, spiced cakes with dried fruits appeared in Europe, and in America they became especially popular in the 19th–20th centuries as a Christmas treat. Over time, many jokes arose around the cake about its “indestructibility” and the idea that it is regifted year after year.
Why the cake has a controversial reputation
Fruitcake often becomes the subject of humor because:
* it is very dense and heavy
* not everyone likes the taste
* it is often received as a gift but not always eaten
* it is believed that the same cake “travels” from house to house
Nevertheless, it also has devoted fans.
How the holiday is celebrated
On this day it is customary to:
* bake a fruitcake at home
* treat friends and relatives
* try different recipes
* share photos and jokes about the cake
Interesting facts
* Fruitcakes soaked in alcohol can be stored for months and even years.
* In some countries there are their own analogues: German stollen, Italian panettone, British Christmas cake.
* In the USA this dessert has become a symbol of the Christmas holidays.
The meaning of the holiday
National Fruitcake Day is a chance to look at traditions with humor, recall the Christmas atmosphere, and perhaps give this dessert one more chance.
National fruitcake day in other years
- 2021 December 27, Monday
- 2022 December 27, Tuesday
- 2023 December 27, Wednesday
- 2024 December 27, Friday
- 2025 December 27, Saturday
- 2027 December 27, Monday