Casserole Of Hot Fruit Salad
A warm, comforting casserole featuring sweet fruit flavors and a tender bread topping, ideal for brunch or dessert, appealing to family and friends seeking a cozy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar until light.
- Add eggs, one at a time, and beat well.
- Stir in drained mandarin oranges, drained crushed pineapple, and bread cubes.
- Turn into a greased 1 3/4-quart casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute the white bread with whole grain or even gluten-free bread for a healthier option. If you want to add more texture, try adding nuts or shredded coconut. Ensure the fruit is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole. This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delightful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a dessert treat. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or a savory dish like grilled chicken to balance the sweetness. It's a perfect dish for brunch or as a side for holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack, but the oven will maintain the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Casserole Of Hot Fruit Salad contains roughly 783 calories, with 6g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), protein (13% 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 use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh fruit! Just be sure to peel and cut the fruit into small pieces. You may need to adjust the sweetness if your fresh fruit is less sweet than canned. Fresh peaches or berries can be great alternatives to the mandarin oranges and pineapple.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. When you're ready to bake, just pop it in the oven at 350°F. It might need a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this casserole is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. However, if you're looking for a vegan version, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer, and use vegan butter as well.
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).