Fruit Cocktail Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Fruit Cocktail Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of fruit cocktail with a moist, spiced cake base. The crunchy pecans and a hint of cinnamon elevate the flavors, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family treat. It's a nostalgic dish that appeals to both young and old.

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Ingredients

  • 1 can fruit cocktail, with juice
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together, except for brown sugar and pecans.
  2. Beat the mixture for 3 minutes.
  3. Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13 pan.
  4. Sprinkle the top with brown sugar and chopped pecans.
  5. Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, you can reduce the sugar by half or substitute with a sugar alternative. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or using a mix of nuts. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation. This cake can also be made with other canned fruits like peaches or pears if you prefer a different taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Fruit Cocktail Cake warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for a lovely presentation. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside American recipes like Cherry Topped Cheesecake or Coconut Cream Pie Or Lemon Meringue Pie.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fruit Cocktail Cake contains roughly 514 calories, with 7g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

514 kcal 26% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.1g 14% DV
Total Fat 29.8g 38% DV
Carbs 42.3g 15% DV
Fiber 6g 22% DV
Sugar 7.7g 15% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 34.8mg 2% DV
Potassium 369.3mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 21.7mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 8.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 12.8mg 14% DV
Calcium 63.8mg 5% DV
Iron 2.4mg 13% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
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?

While canned fruit cocktail provides a unique flavor and moisture, you can certainly use fresh fruits. Just ensure they are diced and combined with a bit of juice to maintain moisture. However, this may change the texture and sweetness of the cake.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on it after the 40-minute mark.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the Fruit Cocktail Cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight 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).

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