Time to think about fruitcake

Cat Campbell/For The Madera Tribune

Fruitcakes are best when allowed to age a few weeks. The flavors mellow and blend.

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There are two camps of people when it comes to fruitcake: one group loves it and the other group hates it. I have not yet figured out which side holds the majority, but like most everything else edible, fruitcake manages to hold its place in the food world.

To be fair, I have to admit that I, a fruitcake lover, have tasted some versions that really would have made excellent doorstops. But I think we have all seen examples of just about every food imaginable, where one version is delicious and another version should get acquainted with the compost bin.

It is my hope that the following recipes will meet the approval of fruitcake fans everywhere.