Grandma Bradford'S Fruit Cocktail Cake
A moist, fruity cake with a tender crumb topped with brown sugar and nuts, perfect for dessert or tea time gatherings, offering a delightful mix of sweetness and crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, flour, soda, egg, and drained fruit cocktail together.
- Pour the batter into an 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Sprinkle brown sugar and nuts on top of the batter.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour before mixing it with the other dry ingredients. You can substitute the nuts with seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. If you don't have fruit cocktail, mixed canned fruits or fresh fruits like diced peaches or pears work well too. This cake can also be made with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful cake warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Depression Ice Cream for a nostalgic dessert experience. For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving, and consider serving it alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature, as the flavors develop further over time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Bradford'S Fruit Cocktail Cake contains roughly 620 calories, with 12g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 use fresh fruit instead of canned fruit cocktail?
Yes, you can certainly use fresh fruit in this recipe! Diced peaches, pears, or a mix of your favorite fruits can add a fresh flavor. Just make sure to adjust the moisture content if necessary, as fresh fruits may contain more juice than canned varieties.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature. If you prefer, you can also freeze it for up to three months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, next time ensure not to overmix the batter, which can lead to a denser texture. You can also add a touch of milk or an additional egg to keep it moist. If it’s already baked and dry, serving it with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of sauce can help add moisture back into each bite.
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).