Fruitcake's association with Christmas stems from its historical role as a special indulgence, reserved for significant occasions due to the cost of its ingredients.
During the 1700s and 1800s, the ingredients required to make fruitcake – dried fruits, nuts, spices, and often alcohol – were expensive and difficult to obtain. This made fruitcake a luxury item. Because of this, it became associated with celebrations like weddings and, most notably, Christmas. It represented a treat that families would splurge on for the holiday season, marking it as a special occasion. The cake's rich, dense nature also meant it could be made well in advance and stored, making it ideal for the busy holiday period. This tradition has persisted over time, solidifying fruitcake's place in Christmas celebrations for many.
