Icebox Fruit Cake

Prep: 15 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Icebox Fruit Cake is a delightful no-bake treat that combines the sweetness of candied fruits and raisins with the crunch of nuts and cookies. Perfect for gatherings or as a nostalgic dessert, it offers a rich, chewy texture and a burst of fruity flavor in every bite. Ideal for those who love indulgent, easy-to-make desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb. vanilla wafers, crushed
  • 1/2 lb. graham crackers, crushed
  • 1 can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 lb. yellow raisins
  • 1 qt. nuts
  • 1/2 lb. candied pineapple, diced
  • 1/2 lb. candied cherries, diced
  • 1 lb. mushrooms, small
  • just a little bit of canned milk

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
  2. Press mixture into a casserole dish and refrigerate until chilled.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more flavorful icebox fruit cake, consider adding a splash of rum or orange juice to the mixture. If you can't find yellow raisins, substitute with sultanas or golden raisins. To make it nut-free, simply omit the nuts or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead. Ensure the mixture is well-combined for even flavor distribution.

Serving Suggestions

This icebox fruit cake is best served chilled, making it a refreshing dessert on warm days. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added richness. Consider serving alongside a fresh fruit salad or a slice of Blueberry Supreme for a delightful dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover icebox fruit cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for up to three months; just slice it before freezing for easy serving. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain its texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Icebox Fruit Cake contains roughly 757 calories, with 12g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (50% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

757 kcal 38% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.4g 25% DV
Total Fat 32.8g 42% DV
Carbs 108.6g 39% DV
Fiber 3.2g 11% DV
Sugar 32.2g 64% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 393mg 17% DV
Potassium 848.6mg 18% DV
Cholesterol 23.4mg 8% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 1.3mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 9.9mcg 50% DV
Calcium 266.9mg 21% DV
Iron 3.1mg 17% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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! You can substitute walnuts, pecans, or even almonds based on your personal preference. Just ensure they are chopped to similar sizes for even distribution. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds.

How long does this icebox fruit cake need to chill?

Ideally, you should chill the icebox fruit cake for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for optimal flavor and texture. This allows the ingredients to meld together and firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.

Can I make this cake in advance for a party?

Yes, this icebox fruit cake is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it up to three days before your event, allowing the flavors to develop while it chills in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent any odors from the fridge affecting its flavor.

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).

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