Get in Early for Glacé Fruit this Christmas

For Caloundra cooks planning their festive baking, The Source Bulk Foods Caloundra recommends stocking up on glacé fruit early.

Store owner Norm says much of the glacé fruit available in Australia is now imported, leaving supplies vulnerable to shipping delays. Last year, stock ordered through some suppliers did not arrive until January, leaving many customers unable to find the ingredients they needed for their Christmas cakes and puddings.

“We had countless customers miss out last Christmas, so we’re trying to let people know not to leave it until December,” Norm said.

The store currently has a colourful selection available, including red and green glacé cherries, pineapple, apricots, mixed citrus peel, orange, figs and pears.

Shoppers can also find Australian mixed dried fruit, organic mixed dried fruit and dried citrus slices for Christmas cocktails.

With fewer suppliers carrying a complete glacé fruit range, popular varieties may become difficult to find as December approaches.

At The Source Caloundra, you can buy exactly the amount you need or choose from the biodegradable Grab & Go packs, for your recipes. There’s less leftover food, less packaging and less waste.

Norm encourages local Christmas bakers to plan ahead: “If you’re making Christmas cakes or puddings, get in early while the full range is available.”

The Source Bulk Foods is located at 22A Bulcock St, Caloundra QLD 4551

GLACE FRUIT EXPLAINED

Glacé fruit brings colour, sweetness and a little old-world charm to Christmas baking, but did you know how it is made?

Whole fruit, fruit pieces or citrus peel are slowly soaked in heated sugar syrups over several days or weeks. As the syrup replaces the fruit’s natural moisture, it develops a chewy texture and glossy finish.

The technique originated in the Middle East, where honey was used before cane sugar became widely available. It later spread through Europe as a practical way to preserve seasonal harvests.

Today, glacé fruit remains a favourite in Christmas cakes, puddings, panettone, biscotti and confectionery.