Graham Cracker Fruitcake

Submitted by Mimi in Maine

"I like fruitcake as long as it doesn't have a lot of strange fruit in it. I like dates, candied cherries, raisins, and walnuts. So that limits a lot fruitcakes although I have changed recipes to suit my taste. I also like graham crackers, so when I found this on the cracker box years ago, I had to try it. I liked it."

 

• Ready In: 1hr 50mins
• Ingredients: 17
• Serves: 20

ingredients

• 1 (8 ounce) package chopped dates
• 1 (4 ounce) container candied green cherries (no mint flavor)
• 2 (4 ounce) containers candied red cherries
• 1 1⁄2 cups walnuts (coarsely chopped) or 1 1/2 cups pecans (coarsely chopped)
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup flaked coconut
• 2 tablespoons grated orange rind
• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1⁄4 teaspoon clove
• 2 1⁄2 cups finely rolled graham crackers
• 1 1⁄4 cups butter
• 1 1⁄2 cups light brown sugar
• 6 eggs (separated)
• 1⁄2 cup orange juice

directions

1. In a very large bowl combine the first seven ingredients with 1/2 cup flour.
2. Mix the remaining flour with the next five ingredients.
3. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs.
4. In a large mixing bowl beat butter and sugar till creamy.
5. Gradually add egg yolks and beat till thick and fluffy.
6. Add the graham crumb mixture and blend well.
7. Stir into fruit mixture with orange juice.
8. In separate bowl, beat egg whites till stiff but not dry; fold into graham cracker mixture.
9. Turn into a well-greased 10" tube pan and bake in 325 degree oven for 1 1/4-1 1/2 hours.
10. Cool in pan for 30 minutes then take out and put on rack to cool completely.