Aunt Rachel'S Fruit Cocktail Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A moist and flavorful fruit cocktail cake packed with the sweetness of canned fruit and the crunch of nuts. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, offering a delightful combination of textures and subtle vanilla aroma that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 medium can fruit cocktail
  • 2 cups self-rising flour
  • 1/2 cup nuts (pecans or walnuts)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 cup cooking oil

Instructions

  1. Combine eggs, sugar, fruit cocktail, and flour in a mixing bowl.
  2. Mix well until the batter is smooth.
  3. Pour the batter into a sheet cake pan.
  4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

Ensure that your fruit cocktail is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter. You can substitute the cooking oil with melted coconut oil for a different flavor, or use applesauce for a lighter version. If you prefer a sweeter cake, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg. This cake is also fantastic with a cream cheese frosting, which can enhance its flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the fruit cocktail cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in texture. It pairs beautifully with Crisp Cheese Wafers for a fun dessert platter. This cake is perfect for brunch or as a sweet treat at picnics and gatherings. It can also be enjoyed as a simple afternoon snack.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover fruit cocktail cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Rachel'S Fruit Cocktail Cake contains roughly 811 calories, with 2g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 65g fat.

811 kcal 41% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.4g 5% DV
Total Fat 65.4g 84% DV
Carbs 30.5g 11% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 8.3g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 41.2mg 2% DV
Potassium 285.9mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 32.3mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 10.4mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 4.9mg 5% DV
Calcium 44mg 3% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned fruit cocktail?

Yes, you can use fresh fruit, but you'll need to adjust the moisture content. Make sure to chop the fruit into small pieces and possibly add a bit of sugar to enhance sweetness. Fresh fruit adds a lovely texture and flavor, making the cake even more delightful.

What can I do if my cake is too dry?

If you find your cake is too dry, it may have been overbaked. Ensure you check for doneness a few minutes before the time is up. You can also drizzle a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water over the cake to add moisture back in.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →