Classic Fruit Cocktail Cake

Name: Classic Fruit Cocktail Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 can fruit cocktail (in juice, about 398 mL or 15 oz); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1/2 cup shredded coconut

70 min 12 slices Easy

All Recipes

A moist and delicious fruit cocktail cake that's easy to make and loved by all ages.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

70 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Fruit cocktail cake is a classic dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia to any gathering. With its moist texture and sweet, fruity flavour, it's a delightful treat for all ages. This version of the cake is wonderfully easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs. This cake works so well because it combines the unique texture of a traditional cake with the freshness of canned fruit cocktail. The combination of the soft cake and the crunchy topping makes for an irresistible bite. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a potluck, this cake is sure to be a hit.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking pan.

Pro tip: Use a light-coloured metal pan for even baking.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.

Combine wet ingredients

Add the fruit cocktail (including juice), eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined and smooth.

Pro tip: Do not overmix; just until combined.

Pour batter into pan

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.

Add the topping

In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, walnuts, and coconut. Sprinkle evenly over the cake batter.

Pro tip: Press down slightly to adhere to the batter.

Bake the cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: The top should be golden brown and slightly crunchy.

Cool the cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving.

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Tips & Tricks

Use canned fruit cocktail in juice, not syrup, for a lighter cake.
Let the cake cool before adding the topping for best absorption.
Toast the coconut and nuts for extra flavour and crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is fruit cocktail cake?

Fruit cocktail cake is a moist cake made with canned fruit cocktail. It's topped with a mixture of brown sugar, nuts, and coconut.

How many calories are in a slice of fruit cocktail cake?

A slice of fruit cocktail cake contains approximately 320 calories.

Can you make fruit cocktail cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What can I serve with fruit cocktail cake?

Serve it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat.

How long should I bake fruit cocktail cake?

Bake the cake at 180°C (350°F) for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the fruit cocktail cake slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavour. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat. This cake can be made a day ahead, and it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

Protein

12g

Fat

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