No Bake - Icebox Fruit Cake
A creamy, fruity no-bake dessert combining marshmallows, coconut, cherries, and nuts layered with graham crackers for a sweet, satisfying treat perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt marshmallows and milk over low heat in a pan.
- Crumble graham crackers into the pan with the melted marshmallows and milk.
- Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the crumbled graham crackers.
- Mix well with your hands until combined.
- Add cherries, nuts, raisins, and pineapple to the mixture.
- Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Let the mixture cool completely.
- Keep refrigerated before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful cake, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of almond extract to the melted marshmallow mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, swap out the graham crackers for whole grain or gluten-free alternatives. You can also use any dried fruit instead of raisins, such as cranberries or apricots, to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful icebox fruit cake as a sweet dessert at family gatherings or holiday celebrations. It pairs beautifully with Donna Watson's Lime Cheesecake for a refreshing dessert spread. You can also garnish it with whipped cream or serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to keep it well-covered to prevent it from drying out. If you want to enjoy it chilled, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving, as this will enhance the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Bake - Icebox Fruit Cake contains roughly 407 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 7g 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 other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add any fruits you enjoy, such as strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. Just make sure to adjust the quantity accordingly to maintain the balance of flavors in the cake.
How long does this cake need to chill?
It's best to chill the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan marshmallows and plant-based milk to make this icebox fruit cake vegan-friendly. Additionally, ensure that the graham crackers you choose are also free of animal products.
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).