Ritz Unbaked Fruit Cake
A playful, no-bake dessert that blends creamy marshmallow milk, crunchy Ritz crackers, sweet cherries, coconut, raisins, and nuts into a festive treat perfect for parties or a quick snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pan, combine the pet milk and marshmallows and heat until the marshmallows melt completely.
- Stir in the crushed Ritz crackers, maraschino cherries, coconut, raisins, and chopped nuts until well mixed.
- Transfer the mixture back into the empty Ritz cracker box, packing it tightly.
- Refrigerate the packed cake for at least 2 days before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the pet milk with sweetened condensed milk. You can also use different nuts like walnuts or pecans if you prefer. If you're short on time, instead of refrigerating for 2 days, allow at least 6 hours for the flavors to meld. This dessert pairs wonderfully with Cheesy Potato Balls for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing treat. It pairs well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For added flavor, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce. This unbaked fruit cake is a great addition to holiday gatherings or as a side to dishes like Hot Chicken Salad(Makes 12 Servings).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The fruit cake can last up to a week in the fridge. For a quick serving, take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing for easier cutting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritz Unbaked Fruit Cake contains roughly 1605 calories, with 18g protein, 239g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), iron (72% of the Daily Value), and potassium (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. It also contributes 28g 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 fruits instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can substitute maraschino cherries with dried fruits like chopped apricots or tropical fruits. Just ensure they are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
How do I make this cake more festive?
To make the cake more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles or chopped candied fruits on top before serving. You can also layer it with cream cheese frosting or serve it alongside Texas Lemon Cake for a vibrant dessert spread.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this unbaked fruit cake is suitable for vegetarians as all the ingredients are plant-based. However, always check the labels of the marshmallows and other ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary preferences.
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).