Hot Brandied Fruit
Hot Brandied Fruit is a warm, luscious dessert featuring a medley of canned fruits simmered in a rich brandy-spiced syrup. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy evenings, its sweet, boozy flavors and aromatic spices make it a delightful treat for fruit lovers and those seeking a comforting, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the fruit and reserve the juices.
- Combine the juices and stir well, then set aside 1/2 cup of the juices.
- Combine melted butter and brown sugar in a saucepan.
- Stir until smooth.
- Add the reserved juice, brandy, cloves, and cinnamon sticks to the butter mixture.
- Stir until well blended.
- Arrange the drained fruit in a 12 x 8 x 2-inch dish.
- Pour the brandy mixture over the fruit.
- Microwave on high for 10 to 12 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
- Stir the mixture twice during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh fruits instead of canned ones, adjusting cooking time as needed. If brandy isn't available, rum or apple juice can be a great substitute. To enhance the spice profile, you might add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. Ensure the butter and brown sugar mixture is smooth for a better consistency. If you enjoy festive treats, this dish is perfect alongside Cocoa-Pink Cuplets.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delightful on its own or served over vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Pair it with a scoop of yogurt for a lighter option. Serve alongside spiced cakes or pastries for a festive spread. It also complements savory dishes like roasted meats or Brussels sprouts, making it a versatile addition to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also serve it cold for a refreshing twist, especially during warm weather. Just make sure to keep it sealed to maintain its flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Brandied Fruit contains roughly 1095 calories, with 7g protein, 242g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (136% of the Daily Value), iron (77% of the Daily Value), and calcium (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 38g 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 frozen fruit instead of canned?
Yes, frozen fruit is a great alternative! Just ensure to thaw and drain the fruit before using it in the recipe. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly to account for the additional moisture from the thawed fruit.
How can I make this dish non-alcoholic?
To make this dish alcohol-free, simply replace the brandy with apple cider or a mix of apple juice and a splash of vanilla extract. This will still provide a lovely flavor without the alcohol content, making it suitable for all ages.
What can I do with the fruit juice left over after draining?
The reserved fruit juice can be used in smoothies or as a sweetener in other recipes. You can also reduce it on the stove for a concentrated syrup to drizzle over pancakes or waffles, adding versatility to your breakfast table.
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).