Quick Fruit Cake
A rich and moist fruit cake featuring chopped dates, nuts, candied cherries, grapes, and shredded coconut, all bound together with sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat, it's quick to prepare and offers a delightful combination of chewy, crunchy, and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 minutes until golden and firm.
- Let it cool before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture. You can substitute the chopped dates with dried apricots if preferred, and feel free to use any combination of nuts you have on hand, like walnuts or pecans. If you're looking for a healthier twist, try incorporating some oats into the mix. This quick fruit cake can be easily adapted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This quick fruit cake is perfect for afternoon tea or as a festive dessert. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, and you can also serve it alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. For a unique combination, try it with a side of Spanish Cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, where it can last for up to a week. To enjoy later, simply slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for a few seconds, or serve at room temperature for a delightful treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Fruit Cake contains roughly 603 calories, with 10g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. 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 ones?
Using fresh fruits is possible, but keep in mind that they may alter the texture and moisture of the cake. If you choose to go this route, consider reducing the amount of sweetened condensed milk to balance the moisture levels. Dried fruits can also work well as a substitute, providing a similar sweetness without the extra moisture.
What can I do if I don't have sweetened condensed milk?
If you don't have sweetened condensed milk, you can make a quick substitute by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of sugar and cooking it over low heat until it thickens. Alternatively, you can use evaporated milk with added sugar. Just remember that the sweetness level may vary slightly, so taste the mixture before baking.
How can I make this cake more festive for holidays?
To make the quick fruit cake more festive, consider adding seasonal spices like nutmeg or ginger, or incorporating dried cranberries and chopped nuts for added texture. Decorating the top with a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzling with a simple icing can also enhance its appearance. You could even serve it alongside a festive drink, like the Berry Rich Shake.
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).