Fruit Cake (No Bake)
A no-bake fruit cake featuring nuts, cherries, and coconut, bonded with sweet marshmallows and milk, perfect for quick festive treats or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the Eagle Brand milk and marshmallows in a double boiler until smooth.
- Mix all ingredients—cherries, pecans, coconut, walnuts, melted milk and marshmallows, and graham crackers—in a large bowl until well combined.
- Separate the mixture into small portions and roll each into a ball or shape as desired.
- Wrap each piece in wax paper and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of almond extract to the melted mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute the pecans and walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Ensure the marshmallows are fully melted to achieve a smooth consistency, as this will help the ingredients bind better. You can also mix in dried fruits like raisins or apricots for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
These no-bake fruit balls can be served as a delightful snack or dessert at parties. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider arranging them on a platter alongside other sweet treats or cheeses. They also make excellent gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or jars, perfect for holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store the fruit balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them, wrapped individually in wax paper and placed in a freezer-safe container, where they can last for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Cake (No Bake) contains roughly 2613 calories, with 43g protein, 184g carbohydrates, and 205g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (116% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (113% of the Daily Value), and protein (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 700mg per serving (30% 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 different types of nuts in this fruit cake?
Absolutely! You can substitute any nuts you prefer or have on hand. Almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios can all work well in this recipe, offering different flavors and textures. Just remember to chop them to a similar size as the walnuts and pecans to keep the consistency uniform.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make this fruit cake vegan, substitute the Eagle Brand milk with a plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternative, which is now available in many grocery stores. Ensure that the marshmallows are vegan as well, as some brands contain gelatin. Using non-dairy butter in place of any dairy-based products can also enhance the flavor.
What can I do if my mixture is too sticky to form into balls?
If the mixture is overly sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to handle. Additionally, you can lightly coat your hands with a bit of oil or powdered sugar to prevent sticking while shaping the balls. Adjusting the ratio of graham crackers can also help absorb excess moisture.
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).