Ball Of Fruit
A sweet and creamy fruit ball coated with chopped pecans, perfect for festive occasions and sharing with friends and family, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the fruit cocktail overnight.
- Pat dry the fruit cocktail with a paper towel.
- Mix the pudding and cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Combine the mixture with the drained fruit cocktail using your hands.
- Form the mixture into a ball shape and place on waxed paper in the freezer just long enough for it to hold its shape.
- Roll the frozen ball over chopped pecans until coated.
- At Christmastime, add extra red and green cherries for decoration.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream instead of cream cheese. If you want to reduce calories, try a low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mix. You can also use any canned fruit you have on hand, such as peaches or pears, to customize the flavor. For added crunch, substitute cinnamon graham crackers with crushed nuts or granola. This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing Gourmet Tossed Green Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fruit ball chilled as a festive appetizer or dessert at gatherings. It pairs well with a variety of sweet dips or can be enjoyed alongside a refreshing Banana-Pineapple Yogurt Smoothie. For a beautiful presentation, arrange it on a platter with fresh fruits or holiday-themed decorations. It's an ideal treat for Christmas parties or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit ball in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. If you want to serve it later, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods to maintain its texture and flavor. If it becomes too soft, refreeze for a short time to regain its shape.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ball Of Fruit contains roughly 306 calories, with 6g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value).
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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fruit ball a day or two in advance. After forming the ball and rolling it in pecans, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of fruit cocktail?
If you don't have canned fruit cocktail, you can use a mix of your favorite fruits, such as diced pineapple, mandarin oranges, and maraschino cherries. Just ensure that the fruits are well-drained to maintain the consistency of the mixture, allowing for a delicious, customized treat.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of the fruit ball, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use a vegan pudding mix. Ensure the graham crackers are also vegan-friendly. This allows you to enjoy a delicious dessert while accommodating dietary preferences.
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).