Decorating a fruit cake with fruit is a simple process that involves using jam as an adhesive and carefully arranging the fruit.
Steps for Fruit Cake Decoration:
- Prepare the Cake Surface:
- Before you begin, ensure your fruitcake has cooled completely.
- Apply Jam:
- Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the top surface of the cake with a thin layer of jam. This jam layer acts as a glue for the fruit.
- Arrange the Fruit:
- Begin by placing the largest pieces of fruit on the cake first. This will act as the base of your design.
- Work around the larger pieces, adding the smaller fruits and nuts to fill the gaps.
- Finish and Serve:
- Allow the jam to set to ensure the fruit is secured to the cake.
Tips for Effective Decoration:
- Variety: Use a mixture of different fruits such as glace cherries, apricots, almonds, and pecans for visual appeal.
- Placement: Think about the design before you start adding fruit, creating either symmetrical or random patterns.
- Freshness: Ensure that all fruits are fresh, clean, and properly dried before you place them on the cake to prevent moisture issues.
- Jam Choice: Use a jam that complements the flavor of the cake, such as apricot or clear jelly.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Do not overcrowd the cake as this will not look very appealing, also the fruit could fall off.
By following these simple steps, you can create a beautifully decorated fruit cake that is both visually appealing and delicious.
