Mimi'S Easy Fruit Cake
A rich, festive fruit cake packed with candied peels, cherries, raisins, and nuts, coated with fluffy frosting—perfect for celebrations or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake the cake according to the directions on the cake mix package.
- Break the baked cake into small pieces and add the candied lemon peel, orange peel, citron peel, candied cherries, raisins, and flaked coconut.
- Prepare the frosting mix according to the directions on its package.
- Add the frosting to the cake and fruit mixture.
- Mix well with your hands and pack the mixture tightly into foil-lined tube or loaf pans.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cutting and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting some of the white cake mix with a lemon or orange cake mix. You can also use different types of nuts based on your preference, such as pecans instead of walnuts. If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of candied fruits and add fresh fruits, or use unsweetened coconut.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the fruit cake into thick pieces and serve it as a dessert or afternoon snack. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it a delightful addition to a brunch spread. For a festive touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider serving alongside a refreshing drink like Quick Party Punch for a balanced treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store the fruit cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To retain moisture, wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing it in the container. This cake also freezes well; simply wrap tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mimi'S Easy Fruit Cake contains roughly 469 calories, with 10g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g 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 fruits instead of candied fruits?
Yes, you can use fresh fruits, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ from the traditional recipe. Fresh fruits may also introduce moisture, so make sure to adjust the other ingredients accordingly and allow the cake to chill longer to set properly.
How long does the fruit cake last?
The fruit cake can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it, where it can last up to three months when wrapped well in foil.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of this fruit cake, use a vegan white cake mix and replace eggs with a suitable substitute, such as applesauce or flaxseed meal. Ensure that your frosting mix is also vegan-friendly or make a homemade vegan frosting using coconut cream.
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).