Rea'S No Bake Fruit Cake
A sweet, no-bake fruit cake packed with raisins, cherries, nuts, and marshmallows, ideal for festive occasions or as a quick, indulgent treat for fruit lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the orange juice as directed on the package.
- Add melted marshmallows and oleo (margarine or butter) together until smooth.
- Combine all ingredients including raisins, miniature marshmallows, orange slice candy, oleo, pecans, cherries or candied fruit, graham cracker crumbs, and frozen orange juice.
- Pack the mixture into a greased pan or tube pan.
- Set aside for a while to allow it to firm up.
- Optional: Add a can of coconut or other toppings before setting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother mixture, melt the marshmallows and oleo together over low heat, stirring continuously. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute. To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you prefer a tropical twist, try incorporating shredded coconut as a topping. This dessert is similar in spirit to Diet Napoleon Squares, offering a delightful combination of textures.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the fruit cake into wedges and serve it chilled as a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. For a festive touch, garnish each slice with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This cake also makes a great addition to potlucks or holiday gatherings, complementing dishes like Turkey Kidney Bean Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Allow the fruit cake to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; it can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rea'S No Bake Fruit Cake contains roughly 944 calories, with 12g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. It also contributes 14g 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 make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this no-bake fruit cake is perfect for making ahead. It can be prepared a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just ensure it's stored properly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It’s an ideal dessert to prepare for busy holiday seasons or gatherings.
What can I use instead of orange slice candy?
If you don’t have orange slice candy, you can substitute it with gummy bears or any other fruity candy that you like. Alternatively, chopped dried fruits such as apricots or figs can also add a delightful sweetness and texture to the cake, making it a versatile recipe.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for graham cracker crumbs?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or substitute with crushed gluten-free cookies such as digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. This will keep the recipe gluten-free without sacrificing the delightful texture of the cake.
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).