Individual Fruit Cake Balls
Sweet and chewy fruit cake balls packed with candied cherries, dates, pineapple, and pecans, perfect as a festive treat or snack for those who enjoy rich, fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients; shape into balls.
- Grease a cookie sheet or pan.
- Bake in a 300°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Remove from the pan while hot and reshape into balls if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using mixed nuts or swapping pecans for walnuts. If you'd like a more tropical twist, try adding dried mango or apricots. When shaping the balls, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. Ensure even baking by rotating the tray halfway through. These cake balls can also be rolled in powdered sugar or shredded coconut for decoration.
Serving Suggestions
These individual fruit cake balls make for a delightful dessert at holiday gatherings. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee, or serve alongside English Tea Cakes for a charming afternoon spread. They also complement a cheese platter nicely, adding a sweet contrast to savory cheeses. Consider serving with Berries With Honey Yogurt Cream for a refreshing side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit cake balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 250°F for about 5-10 minutes to maintain their texture without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Individual Fruit Cake Balls contains roughly 1107 calories, with 11g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1829mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
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 candied fruit?
While fresh fruit could be used, it may alter the texture and moisture level of the cake balls. Candied fruits offer a concentrated sweetness and chewy texture that works best in this recipe. If you prefer to use fresh fruits, consider drying them out slightly to reduce moisture content before adding them to the mix.
What can I do if the mixture is too sticky to shape into balls?
If you find the mixture too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help firm up the mixture, making it easier to shape into balls. Alternatively, lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar or coconut to prevent sticking while rolling.
Can I make these fruit cake balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cake balls can be made a few days in advance. After shaping and baking, allow them to cool completely before storing them. They actually improve in flavor after sitting for a day. Just keep them covered to maintain freshness until you're ready to serve.
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).