Refrigerated Fruit Cake
Refrigerated Fruit Cake offers a delightful blend of crunchy vanilla wafers, sweet cherries, pineapple, and toasted pecans, all combined with condensed milk for richness. Perfect as a no-bake dessert, it suits those seeking a simple, flavorful treat that can be prepared ahead and enjoyed chilled.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix vanilla wafers and condensed milk in a bowl.
- Add cherries, pineapple, and pecan halves to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a lined loaf pan.
- Cover with wax paper.
- Refrigerate until firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a touch of almond extract to the mixture. You can substitute the cherries and pineapple with other fruits like chopped apples or raisins for a different taste. If you're looking for a lighter version, use low-fat condensed milk. Make sure to crush the vanilla wafers into fine crumbs for better integration. This cake sets best when left to chill overnight.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the fruit cake into thick pieces and serve it as a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a slice of Sweet Potato Pie In Orange Shells to create a colorful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Be sure to keep it covered with wax paper or plastic wrap to maintain moisture. This fruit cake can be served cold straight from the fridge, eliminating the need for reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Refrigerated Fruit Cake contains roughly 251 calories, with 3g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
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?
Yes, you can substitute pecan halves with walnuts or almonds for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure the nuts are chopped to a similar size so they mix well with the other ingredients.
How long should I refrigerate the fruit cake before serving?
It's best to refrigerate the fruit cake for at least 4-6 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up for easier slicing.
Is there a gluten-free option for the vanilla wafers?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free vanilla wafer alternatives available in stores or online. This makes the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities while still keeping the delicious flavor intact.
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).