Hot Fruit Casserole
Hot Fruit Casserole is a warm, sweet dessert perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners. Combining a medley of canned fruits, bananas, and dates, all topped with a buttery, sugary glaze, it offers a comforting, fruity flavor. Ideal for those who enjoy rich, fruity baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine fruit cocktail, sliced peaches, chunk pineapple, apricot halves, sliced bananas, and pitted dates in a buttered casserole.
- Melt oleo (butter) and brown sugar; pour the mixture over the fruit in the casserole.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavors, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the fruit mixture. If you don't have pitted dates, you can substitute with raisins or dried apricots. Ensure to drain the fruit well to prevent excess liquid in the casserole. This dish is perfect for using up overripe bananas or leftover canned fruit from previous recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot fruit casserole as an indulgent breakfast or a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat. Consider adding a side of yogurt for a balanced breakfast, or serve alongside pancakes for a weekend brunch. It also complements a cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of Yummy Yum Punch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and warm in the microwave until heated through, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until hot. This casserole is best enjoyed fresh but can still be delightful as leftovers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Fruit Casserole contains roughly 493 calories, with 2g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 7g 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?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit! Just ensure to slice and prepare about the same quantity as the canned fruit. Fresh peaches, pineapples, and bananas will add a fresh flavor to the casserole. However, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
To make this casserole vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, making it an easy adaptation for those following vegan recipes.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the fruit mixture and the sugar-butter topping ahead of time. Assemble the casserole and cover it with plastic wrap, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, remove from the fridge and bake as directed.
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).