Mam Maw'S Fruit Cake
Mam Maw's Fruit Cake is a sweet, no-bake treat packed with coconut, pecans, raisins, and marshmallows, perfect for holidays or family gatherings with rich, chewy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, chopped pecans, grated coconut, and raisins.
- On very low heat, melt the marshmallows in the sweetened condensed milk, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the melted marshmallow mixture into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Press the mixture into a foil-lined dish.
- Refrigerate for several hours or until firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the melted marshmallows. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds can be substituted for the pecans. You can also use dried fruit such as cranberries or apricots instead of raisins for a twist in flavor. Ensure to mix thoroughly to avoid clumps.
Serving Suggestions
This fruit cake makes a delightful dessert on its own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a great choice for afternoon gatherings. For an enhanced flavor experience, try it alongside a slice of Old-Fashioned Cheesecake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mam Maw's Fruit Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mam Maw'S Fruit Cake contains roughly 1287 calories, with 17g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), iron (69% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 509mg per serving (22% 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans give the cake a lovely richness, you can easily substitute them with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Just ensure to chop them coarsely for the best texture.
How long does this cake need to set in the refrigerator?
It’s best to refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up, making it easier to cut into squares for serving.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, Mam Maw's Fruit Cake is perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare it up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator, or freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before serving.
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).