fruit cocktail cake recipe

The Best fruit cocktail cake recipe

I’ve been making fruit cocktail cake for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The recipe is easy to follow, and the result is a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion.

I love that it’s a great way to use up leftover fruit, and the best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a snack, dessert, or even as a brunch option. The combination of juicy fruit, sweet sugar, and tangy spices creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.

As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks. The health benefits of this cake are also a bonus – the fruit adds natural sweetness and fiber, while the whole wheat flour provides sustained energy.

My kids adore helping me mix the batter, and they’re always eager to taste the finished product. In fact, this cake has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too.

When I first made this recipe, I was surprised by how much my family loved it – we’ve since tweaked it to suit our tastes, but the core ingredients remain the same. Over time, I’ve experimented with different fruits and flavor combinations, but the classic version remains my favorite.

This cake is perfect for any time of year, whether you’re looking for a seasonal dessert or a comforting treat on a chilly day.

Classic Fruit Cocktail Cake

Classic Fruit Cocktail Cake

4.8 from 1284 votes

A moist and tender cake made with canned fruit cocktail and a simple batter. Topped with a buttery brown sugar glaze, this easy dessert is perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 (15-ounce) can fruit cocktail in heavy syrup, undrained
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
3In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
4Add the eggs, undrained fruit cocktail, and vanilla extract, then stir with a spatula just until the batter is smooth and no dry streaks remain.
5Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
6Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7While the cake bakes, make the topping.
8In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
9Add the brown sugar and evaporated milk, then stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and the sugar dissolves, about 2 to 3 minutes.
10Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
11Poke holes all over the warm cake with a fork, then pour the hot topping evenly over the surface.
12Sprinkle with coconut if using, and let the cake cool completely before slicing.

🔧Equipment

9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula
Saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 320mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 38g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

For a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar in the batter to 1 cup. The topping can be made without coconut if desired.

Watch Video Of How Classic Fruit Cocktail Cake Works

This fruit cocktail cake recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party, need a quick dessert for your family, or just want something delicious to snack on throughout the day. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite fruits and spices! Over time, my family has come to expect this cake at every gathering – it’s become a staple in our household that never fails to impress.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Fruit Cocktail Cake

Q: What type of fruit should I use in this recipe?

The beauty of this recipe is that you can use any combination of fruits you like! Some options include chopped apples, pears, or bananas; dried cranberries or cherries; or even fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the whole wheat flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that gluten-free flours may behave differently in terms of texture and structure.

Q: How long does this cake keep?

This cake will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months – simply thaw at room temperature when ready.

Q: Can I add nuts or seeds to this recipe?

Of course! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast. You can also try adding seeds like sesame or sunflower for added nutrition.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No problem! You can substitute buttermilk with an equal amount of milk or yogurt mixed with 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

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