Fruit Cake Balls
Fruit Cake Balls are delightful treats combining the rich flavors of spice cake with vibrant fruits and nuts. These bite-sized confections are perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, offering a sweet, tangy, and nutty flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake the spice cake according to the package directions and let it cool.
- Crumble the baked cake into a large mixing bowl.
- Add orange peel, lemon peel, citron, red cherries, green cherries, pineapple, pecans, white raisins, and white frosting to the crumbled cake.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls.
- Roll each ball in coconut to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Fruit Cake Balls, consider adding a splash of rum or brandy to the mixture. If you can't find citron, you can substitute with diced candied ginger or additional dried fruit. For a more vibrant color, use mixed candied fruit instead of just cherries. Make sure to allow the cake to cool completely before crumbling for easier mixing.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful Fruit Cake Balls are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside tea or coffee. Serve them on a festive platter with a sprinkle of extra coconut for an appealing presentation. They pair beautifully with Cranberry Frost for a festive dessert spread. For a fun twist, try serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Fruit Cake Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. To serve after freezing, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying. This ensures they retain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Cake Balls contains roughly 1056 calories, with 13g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (149% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 24g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 these Fruit Cake Balls in advance?
Yes, you can make them up to two weeks in advance. Just store them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them. They freeze well and maintain their flavor, so you can enjoy them whenever you like.
What can I use instead of coconut for coating?
If you're not a fan of coconut, you can roll the Fruit Cake Balls in crushed nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, or even in powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a different flavor profile. This adds a unique twist while still providing a lovely finish to the treats.
Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spice cake mix gives a warm flavor, you can use yellow or white cake mix if you prefer a milder taste. Just keep in mind that it may alter the overall flavor profile slightly, but it will still yield delicious Fruit Cake Balls.
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).