Fruit Cocktail Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of fruit with a moist cake texture. It’s a fun and easy recipe that can be enjoyed at any gathering or even as an everyday treat. This cake is not only simple to make but also a great way to use canned fruit.

Why Make This Recipe

This Fruit Cocktail Cake is perfect for many occasions. It’s great for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a weekend treat. The ingredients are usually things you already have in your pantry, making it a budget-friendly choice. The combination of the fruit with the soft cake creates a delightful flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to personalize with your favorite nuts or frosting.

How to Make Fruit Cocktail Cake

Ingredients:

1 can (15 oz) fruit cocktail, drained
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Frosting (optional, such as cream cheese frosting or whipped cream)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained fruit cocktail, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts if desired.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing out the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool before frosting or serving.

How to Serve Fruit Cocktail Cake

Fruit Cocktail Cake can be served warm or at room temperature. If you love frosting, consider spreading cream cheese frosting or whipped cream on top before serving. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

How to Store Fruit Cocktail Cake

To store the cake, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it at room temperature for a day or two. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator, where it should stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips to Make Fruit Cocktail Cake

Make sure to drain the fruit cocktail well to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
If you want to add more flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Experiment with different types of nuts such as walnuts or pecans to change the texture and flavor.

Variation

You can easily switch up this recipe by using different canned fruits such as peaches, pears, or even tropical fruit mixes. Each variation brings its own unique taste and excitement.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned fruit?
Yes, you can use chopped fresh fruit, but you may need to adjust the moisture levels in the recipe.

2. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

3. Is there a way to make this cake healthier?
You can reduce sugar by using a sugar substitute, and consider adding whole grain flour for more fiber.

Now you know how to make and enjoy Fruit Cocktail Cake! It’s an easy, delicious dessert that can fit any occasion.