Jewel Fruit Cake
A rich, fruity no-bake fruitcake featuring pecans, candied cherries and pineapple, shredded coconut, and a sweet condensed milk base, perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a loaf pan with heavy brown paper.
- Grease the paper well.
- Chop pecans, dates, cherries, and pineapple into medium-sized pieces.
- Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Mix until blended.
- Turn into the prepared loaf pan and press with a spoon or your hand to level the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Ensure to chop the fruits and nuts uniformly for even distribution in the cake. If you prefer a sweeter cake, consider adding a touch of maple syrup or honey to the mixture. When mixing, avoid over-mixing to maintain the texture. This cake can also be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Jewel Fruit Cake into thick pieces and serve it as a delightful dessert or snack with afternoon tea. It pairs beautifully with Mother'S Day Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This cake is perfect for holiday gatherings and can be served alongside coffee or dessert wines.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Jewel Fruit Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three weeks. To serve, allow it to come to room temperature, as it enhances the flavors. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jewel Fruit Cake contains roughly 1799 calories, with 28g protein, 200g carbohydrates, and 110g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% 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 fruits instead of candied ones?
While fresh fruits can add moisture and flavor, they may not provide the same sweetness and texture as candied fruits. If you choose to use fresh fruits, consider adjusting the sweetened condensed milk quantity and adding a bit more coconut to help bind the mixture.
Is it possible to freeze the Jewel Fruit Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the Jewel Fruit Cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, allowing the flavors to develop.
What can I use instead of almond extract?
If you don't have almond extract, you can substitute it with vanilla extract or a few drops of orange or lemon extract for a different flavor profile. Each will give a unique twist to the cake while still enhancing the overall taste.
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).