Hot Fruit Salad
Warm and inviting, this hot fruit salad combines tender pineapple chunks and sliced peaches with aromatic spices and a hint of brandy extract. Perfect as a comforting dessert or side, its sweet and spicy flavors appeal to all ages and can be customized with bananas for extra richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine pineapple chunks, sliced peaches, maraschino cherries, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, curry powder, nutmeg, brandy extract, and vanilla in a 2-quart casserole.
- Cover and cook at 250°F for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally if desired.
- Optionally, add ripened bananas during cooking for added flavor.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of orange juice or lemon zest to the fruit mixture. If you don't have brandy extract, vanilla extract works well as a substitute. Experiment with spices; for a unique twist, consider adding a pinch of cardamom. If you're looking for a healthier option, use honey instead of brown sugar for sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This hot fruit salad pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful dessert. You can serve it alongside savory dishes like roasted meats or as a side for brunch. For a festive touch, consider adding it to your holiday table, complementing dishes like Honey Glazed Ham or Eggless Spice Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fruit salad in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Fruit Salad contains roughly 477 calories, with 10g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (135% of the Daily Value), iron (76% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value). 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 fresh fruit instead of canned fruit?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit! Just make sure to peel and chop fruits like peaches and pineapples into similar-sized pieces. Fresh fruit may require a shorter cooking time, so monitor the texture closely to prevent overcooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this hot fruit salad vegan, simply omit the brandy extract or use a non-alcoholic alternative. Additionally, substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a plant-based sweetener.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fruit mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, covered tightly. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven or microwave. This makes it a great addition to brunch or holiday gatherings!
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).