Fun Facts About Fruitcake

While very few people actually like fruitcake, everyone is familiar with this Christmas treat. But, how long have people been enjoying this holiday treat? What are some of the strange things people do with them? Find out those fun facts and many more in this holiday inspired article.

Fun Facts About Fruitcake: Was Highly Thought of By the Egyptians

Fruitcakes have been enjoyed for thousands of years. In fact, Egyptians were even known to enjoy them. The Egyptians thought so much of these cakes that they put them in tombs. They thought that fruitcakes would survive the long journey to the afterlife. That concept isn't too far-fetched.

Fun Facts About Fruitcake: Snacked on by Crusaders

Even Crusaders knew that fruitcakes could withstand a long journey. Not only did these cakes withstand long journeys, but they were also full of nutritious items like dried fruit and nuts. This was long before the neon green cherries and pineapple.

Fun Facts About Fruitcake: Part of English Wedding Traditions

Another fun fact is that fruitcakes were the wedding cake of choice in England. Obviously, this doesn't sound like the best choice on earth. Regardless, single female wedding guests would take a piece home and place it under their pillow in hopes of dreaming of the man they would marry.

Fun Facts About Fruitcake: They Get Better with Age

Many people claim that fruitcakes get better with age. Another fun fact is that they are perfectly edible as long as there is no mold on them. The only problem is that they sometimes dry out. If this happens, just soak them in alcohol or simple syrup to renew them.

Fun Facts About Fruitcake: Not Favorable Among the Masses

What do you do when someone gives you a fruitcake? An outstanding 38% of people said they gave it away, making fruitcake quite possibly the most popular re-gifted item. Another 13% used it as a doorstop, while 9% threw it away. Still 28% of people ate them. But, other people have more interesting uses for this holiday treat.

Fun Facts About Fruitcake: Used in Some Pretty Strange Ways

People often use fruitcakes as doorstops, but others decide to be a bit more extreme. In fact, the people of Manitou Springs, Colorado take part in the Great Fruitcake Toss. This festival features several different fruitcake contests. People see how far they can throw or hurtle this holiday treat, while others use fruitcakes to make little cars for a race. These are just a few of the fun activities that take place.

Fun Facts About Fruitcake: A Holiday Tradition

While there are very few people who actually enjoy fruitcake, it's still a holiday tradition. Whether you give it as a gag gift or know someone who actually enjoys it, be sure to keep the spirit of this holiday tradition alive this year.