No Bake Fruit Cake
A delicious no-bake fruit cake that combines crunchy vanilla wafers, nuts, raisins, coconut, and cherries into a sweet, festive treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a quick dessert, its rich flavors and chewy texture make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush the vanilla wafers and mix them with nuts, raisins, coconut, and cherries.
- Add the juice from the cherries and the sweetened condensed milk to the mixture.
- Mix everything well and work the mixture into a bowl or pan lined with waxed paper.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries to the mixture. If you're looking for a nut-free version, substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Make sure to use a high-quality sweetened condensed milk for better sweetness. You can also experiment by drizzling melted chocolate on top for an extra treat.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the no bake fruit cake into squares and serve it chilled as a dessert. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh fruit or mint leaves. This cake is also great alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain freshness, keep it wrapped in wax paper or plastic wrap. This cake can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, but if you prefer, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Bake Fruit Cake contains roughly 2114 calories, with 25g protein, 301g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 957mg per serving (42% 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! Feel free to mix and match your favorite nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Just make sure they are chopped to a similar size as the other ingredients so they blend well into the cake.
How long does this no bake fruit cake last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, the no bake fruit cake can last up to a week. However, for the best flavor and texture, it is recommended to enjoy it within the first few days of making it.
Can I freeze the no bake fruit cake?
Yes, you can freeze the no bake fruit cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving for the best results.
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).