Sam'S Fruit Cake
A rich, fruity no-bake cake featuring candied cherries, pineapple, nuts, and coconut, layered with vanilla wafers, perfect for festive gatherings and sweet celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll out the vanilla wafers with a dough roller.
- Combine candied cherries, candied pineapple, Eagle Brand milk, coconut, white raisins, pecans, and English walnuts in a dishpan and work them together.
- Press the mixture firmly into a tube pan lined with the rolled wafers.
- Refrigerate the cake for 36 hours before cutting and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of rum or brandy to the mixture. If you don't have Eagle Brand milk, sweetened condensed milk can be used as a substitute. You can also swap the nuts based on your preference or availability; almonds or hazelnuts work well too. Ensure to roll the Nilla wafers evenly to create a sturdy base.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the fruit cake into thick wedges and serve it on a decorative platter. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or additional candied fruits. This cake is also a great addition to holiday dessert tables or as a sweet treat with coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To keep it fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold directly from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sam'S Fruit Cake contains roughly 1220 calories, with 19g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 114g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 18g 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 fruit cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This fruit cake actually tastes better after a day or two as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to enhance the flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this fruit cake is suitable for vegetarians as it does not contain any meat or animal by-products. All the ingredients listed are plant-based, making it a delicious option for those following vegetarian recipes.
Can I substitute the nuts in this recipe?
Certainly! If you have nut allergies or a preference for different nuts, you can easily substitute pecans and walnuts with other varieties like almonds, cashews, or pistachios. Just make sure the total weight remains the same for the best texture and 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).