Iced Box Fruit Cake

Prep: 15 min

A sweet, fruity no-bake dessert featuring cherries, nuts, marshmallows, raisins, coconut, and vanilla, ideal for parties or family gatherings that enjoy rich, chewy treats.

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Ingredients

  • 8 oz. bottle maraschino cherries
  • 1 cup nuts
  • 1 pound graham cracker crumbs or crushed vanilla wafers
  • 1 pound marshmallows
  • 1 pound raisins
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 cup coconut

Instructions

  1. Combine milk and marshmallows in a double boiler and cook until melted.
  2. Pour the melted mixture over the other ingredients and mix well.
  3. Put the mixture in the refrigerator and let it stand until set.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of rum or bourbon to the mixture. If you don't have maraschino cherries, fresh cherries or dried fruit can be used as substitutes. You can also experiment with different nuts like pecans or walnuts based on your preference. Ensure to mix the ingredients thoroughly for even distribution of flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the iced box fruit cake into squares and serve as a refreshing dessert on a warm day. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Consider serving it alongside a fruity cocktail or a hot beverage to complement the flavors, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you need to reheat, allow the cake to come to room temperature and serve chilled. This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so avoid heating it in the microwave as it may alter the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Iced Box Fruit Cake contains roughly 1148 calories, with 10g protein, 205g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (73% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1148 kcal 57% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.4g 21% DV
Total Fat 23g 30% DV
Carbs 205.4g 75% DV
Fiber 16.7g 60% DV
Sugar 150.5g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 370.9mg 16% DV
Potassium 1298.1mg 28% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 302.3mcg 34% DV
Vitamin C 16.6mg 18% DV
Vitamin D 2.2mcg 11% DV
Calcium 346.5mg 27% DV
Iron 13.1mg 73% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains 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! Feel free to substitute with any nuts you prefer, such as pecans, walnuts, or even macadamia nuts. Just ensure that they are chopped to a similar size for even distribution throughout the cake.

How long does the cake need to set in the refrigerator?

The cake should ideally set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for optimal firmness and flavor melding. Just cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.

Can I add other fruits to the cake?

Yes, you can customize your iced box fruit cake by adding other fruits such as chopped pineapple, apricots, or even bananas. Just be mindful of moisture levels, as some fruits may add extra liquid, affecting the texture.

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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