Today we’re making Instant Pot Fruitcake and Instant Pot Vanilla Extract!
Fruitcake is one of those foods that people either hate or love. I think those that hate it have really never had “real” fruitcake made from whole food. More than likely somewhere along the way they had a bite of the nasty stuff they sell in box stores. Those that do like it have likely had it homemade with real candied fruit or had it from a high-end baker.
Unfortunately, it’s not enough to say that if fruitcake is homemade then it will be good. The problem with some homemade fruitcakes is the processed, candied fruit that is added to an otherwise great batter. Some people have decided that using dry fruit is a healthier alternative, and it is if you’re trying to avoid sugar. But using candied fruit gives fruitcake a special naturally sweet taste that is superb. You can purchase “real” candied fruit, but it’s very expensive; besides candied fruit is really easy to make. (If you’re a member of Self Reliant School go to Lesson 12 of the Dehydrating eCourse and follow the directions for making candied fruit.)
Of course along with your candied fruit you’ll need some nuts. If you soak nuts before you eat them you’ll have better digestion and absorb more of the nutrients contained in the nuts. Nuts and other seeds have enzyme inhibitors because they are seeds, and by nature, seeds are secure little packages with “baby plants” in them. The seed is not designed to be eaten or used for any other, purpose except to produce another tree. However, we can neutralize some of the seeds natural enzyme inhibitors by mimicking germination by soaking them in water. (Members can go to Lesson 17 of the Dehydrating eCourse to learn more.)
On the show, I mixed the ingredients for a 6 quart Instant Pot then showed you a fruitcake made in an 8 quart. See the exact recipe for Instant Pot Fruitcake using a 6 quart or 8 quart Instant Pot.
Vanilla extract is so easy to make and can be made faster in the Instant Pot. Normally when you infuse your favorite alcohol with vanilla you have to wait months to enjoy vanilla extract. This recipe uses a hot process method for making vanilla extract that allows you to give it as a gift and have it ready to go in about 2 weeks. Plus I designed some labels so that you can bottle up your homemade vanilla and the recipients of your gift will know the best time to use it. You can check out our post on Instant Pot Vanilla Extract for the complete recipe.
Note: Remember even though I used Mason jar on the show. It’s not safe to pressure can or water bath can in the Instant Pot or any other pressure cooker.
Don’t forget to check out our pressure cooker resource page, we’ve got 6-quart accessories and 8-quart accessories listed.
Also, be sure to pick up our FREE Pressure Cooking Quick Start Guide!
