This recipe provides a delightful twist on the classic Friendship Fruitcake Starter, offering a flavorful and engaging way to prepare this cherished treat.
Combine the canned peaches, pineapple, and maraschino cherries with their syrups in a 1-gallon glass jar.
Ensure the jar is clean and dry before use to avoid contamination.
Add the granulated sugar and active dry yeast to the jar, stirring well to combine.
Mix thoroughly to dissolve the sugar and activate the yeast.
Cover the jar loosely and store it at room temperature.
Use a breathable cover like a cloth to allow gases to escape.
Stir the mixture daily for 10 days.
Set a daily reminder to ensure consistent stirring.
After 10 days, add another can of peaches and pineapple with their syrups, and stir well.
Adding fresh fruit boosts the flavor and fermentation process.
Repeat the stirring process daily for another 10 days.
Consistency is key to maintaining the starter's activity.
On day 20, add another can of maraschino cherries, stir well, and continue stirring daily for 10 more days.
Ensure the cherries are evenly distributed in the mixture.
On day 30, drain the fruit and reserve the liquid starter.
The reserved liquid can be used to start a new batch or shared with friends.