Layered Hot Fruit Salad
A warm, layered fruit salad baked with apricots, pears, pineapple, blueberries, bananas, and a sweet sauce, perfect for family gatherings and fruit lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the can of applesauce and the can of cranberry sauce; set aside half of this mixture.
- Stir 4 sliced bananas into the remaining fruit mixture.
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan, layer half of the sauce mixture at the bottom.
- Add the fruit mixture with bananas on top of the first layer.
- Top with the remaining sauce mixture.
- Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with brown sugar.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the fruit mixture for added texture. If you don't have bananas, you can substitute with sliced peaches or nectarines. Ensure the canned fruits are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish. This recipe can easily be adapted to include fresh fruits if preferred, particularly during the summer months for a vibrant flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Layered Hot Fruit Salad warm as a delightful side dish for family gatherings or potlucks. It pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like Mom'S Barbecue Chicken and can also be enjoyed as a sweet dessert. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Layered Hot Fruit Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil, heating in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Hot Fruit Salad contains roughly 264 calories, with 2g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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?
Yes, you can substitute fresh fruit for canned in this recipe. Just ensure that you have similar quantities and that the fruits are ripe. Fresh fruits like peaches, apples, and berries can add a wonderful flavor and texture to the dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products. Just be sure to check the labels of your canned goods to ensure they are gluten-free, especially the sauces, as some brands may use gluten-containing additives.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the fruit layers and sauce mixture a day ahead. Just assemble the dish and store covered in the refrigerator. Before serving, bake it fresh to warm it through, ensuring all flavors meld perfectly for your guests.
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).