Swedish Fruit Soup
Swedish Fruit Soup is a hearty, sweet-tart dish combining dried and canned fruits with delicate flavors of citrus and spices. Perfect as a comforting dessert or a light appetizer, it offers a vibrant medley of textures and fruity goodness, suitable for family gatherings or cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine dried prunes, raisins, dried apricots, sliced apples, canned pitted red sour cherries, and quick Minute tapioca in a crock-pot.
- Add grape juice and enough water to cover the mixture, about 3 cups.
- Cover and cook on low setting for 8 to 10 hours.
- Before serving, stir in orange juice, lemon juice, and grated orange peel.
- Serve warm or cold as a soup or dessert.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker consistency, consider using more tapioca or letting the soup simmer longer. You can substitute the dried fruits based on what you have on hand; for example, dried figs or dates can work well. If you prefer a sweeter soup, add a touch of honey or maple syrup to taste. Adjust juices to balance tartness and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fruit soup warm or chilled, garnished with fresh mint or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with light pastries or a slice of pound cake. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside a savory dish like German Kraut for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swedish Fruit Soup contains roughly 145 calories, with 2g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g 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 fruit instead of dried?
While dried fruit provides concentrated sweetness and flavor, you can use fresh fruit, but the texture and taste will differ. If using fresh, reduce the cooking time and consider adding a bit more sweetener to achieve a similar flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Swedish Fruit Soup is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any juice used is 100% fruit juice without added sugars or preservatives. It's a perfect addition to any vegan recipes collection.
How can I make this soup more filling?
To make the soup more filling, consider adding a scoop of yogurt or a handful of granola on top before serving. You could also serve it alongside a hearty bread or a grain salad to create a more balanced meal.
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).