No-Cook Icebox Fruit Cake
A no-bake, fruity icebox cake layered with graham crackers, citron, cherries, pecans, and marshmallows, perfect for a quick, sweet, and crunchy dessert suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the milk in a double boiler.
- Add the cut-up marshmallows and heat until melted.
- Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the crushed graham crackers and fruit.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Add the chopped pecans and stir to distribute evenly.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh fruit such as diced pineapple or cherries instead of canned. If you prefer a different nut flavor, walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans. Keep your marshmallows cut into smaller pieces to ensure they melt evenly. If you're looking for a low-sugar option, consider using sugar-free graham crackers and marshmallows.
Serving Suggestions
This no-cook icebox fruit cake is delightful on its own but can be paired with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee, or enjoy it as a sweet ending to a summer barbecue. It also makes a fantastic treat after a hearty meal like Low Carb Meat Loaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store the icebox fruit cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will meld and improve over time. If you need to reheat, do so gently in the microwave for a few seconds, but it's best served chilled straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No-Cook Icebox Fruit Cake contains roughly 667 calories, with 10g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (57% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D. It also contributes 9g 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 different types of fruit in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests citron or canned pineapple and cherries, feel free to use your favorite fruits, such as strawberries, peaches, or even mixed berries. Just ensure they are properly drained if using canned fruit to avoid excess moisture.
How long does it take for the cake to set?
The icebox fruit cake will typically need about 4-6 hours in the refrigerator to set properly. For best results, consider letting it sit overnight. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making each slice even more delicious.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this no-cook icebox fruit cake is perfect for making ahead of time. It can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent any odors from affecting its flavor.
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).