Fruit Slice
A rich fruit slice featuring chocolate, nuts, and a hint of rum flavoring, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition.
- Beat in melted unsweetened chocolate.
- Add sifted dry ingredients in thirds, alternately with milk and flavoring, beating until smooth after each addition.
- Stir in chopped nuts.
- Using 2 buttered jelly roll pans, spoon batter in 4 rows, the length of the pans (2 rows in each pan).
- Arrange batter together in even strips, about 2 inches wide.
- Beat the egg white with a fork and brush some over each row, avoiding spillover onto the pan.
- Lightly sprinkle sugar over the top.
- Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 20 minutes.
- Frost if desired.
- Cut into diagonal slices before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the batter or using dark chocolate instead of unsweetened. If you're out of rum flavoring, vanilla extract works as a suitable substitute. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming, and sift the flour to prevent lumps. Using a spatula to fold in the nuts helps retain air in the batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fruit slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving alongside Dink'S Lemon Chess Pie for a delightful dessert spread. For a festive touch, add a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If reheating, place individual slices in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through. This will help maintain their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Slice contains roughly 145 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chopped nuts with walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips based on your preference. Just ensure they are chopped small enough to blend well into the batter.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter appears too thick, you can add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the final product.
Is it necessary to frost the fruit slices?
Frosting is optional and can be based on personal preference. If you prefer a less sweet option, enjoy them plain or with just a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For a richer taste, consider frosting with a cream cheese or chocolate glaze.
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).