Grandmother'S Icebox Fruit Cake
A nostalgic icebox fruit cake packed with nuts, dried fruits, and spices, ideal for festive occasions and those who enjoy rich, sweet, and crunchy treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush graham crackers and place in a large bowl. Add chopped pecans, chopped Brazil nuts, English walnuts, candied cherries, seedless raisins, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Put milk and large marshmallows in a large pot and heat slowly until marshmallows are melted, stirring frequently. Do not boil.
- Pour the melted marshmallow mixture into the cracker and nut mixture and mix with hands until well combined.
- Ensure nuts and cherries are evenly distributed and not knotted together.
- Line a casserole dish with wax paper and transfer the mixture into it.
- Press the mixture until it is compact and solid.
- Place in the refrigerator and chill overnight.
- Decorate the top with additional nuts and cherries before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, feel free to substitute some of the pecans with walnuts or almonds. If you prefer a sweeter cake, consider adding a bit of honey or maple syrup to the melted marshmallow mixture. Make sure to crush the graham crackers finely for better texture and easier mixing. Also, ensure that the marshmallows are fully melted to avoid lumps in the final mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the chilled fruit cake and serve it as a delightful dessert, perhaps alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. It's perfect for holiday gatherings or afternoon tea. For a festive touch, pair it with a glass of spiced cider or coffee. It also makes a great addition to a dessert table featuring other favorites like Caramel Topped Apple Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This dessert actually improves in flavor as it sits. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil; it can last up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother'S Icebox Fruit Cake contains roughly 2226 calories, with 33g protein, 296g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (166% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (91% of the Daily Value), and calcium (87% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1208mg per serving (53% 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 recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite nuts. Almonds, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts can add unique flavors to the cake. Just ensure that the total amount remains consistent with the recipe to maintain the right texture.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies. Check the labels on the nuts and marshmallows to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Is it necessary to chill the cake overnight?
Chilling the cake overnight allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly, making it easier to slice. If you're short on time, at least chill it for a few hours before serving, but for the best results, overnight is recommended.
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).