Fruit Cocktail Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a sweet slice of nostalgia that many of us remember fondly from our childhoods. This delightful cake combines the flavors of fruit cocktail, coconut, and pecans, creating a moist and flavorful treat that warms the heart. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dessert. Let me share with you how to make this classic and comforting cake that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Fruit Cocktail Cake

This Fruit Cocktail Cake is sure to become a favorite for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just one bowl for mixing, which means less cleanup for you. Second, the sweet combination of fruit cocktail and coconut creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. Third, it’s perfect for potlucks and parties; its unique taste makes it stand out among other desserts. Fourth, the cake remains moist and delicious even days after baking, making it ideal for meal prep. Fifth, it’s a versatile recipe; you can easily adapt it into a Mixed Fruit Cake or a Tropical Fruit Cake by adding different fruits. Sixth, it can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a flexible choice for any setting.

Ingredients for Fruit Cocktail Cake

Gather these items:

1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
1 tablespoon vanilla
2 teaspoons baking soda
¾ teaspoon table salt
16 ounces fruit cocktail with liquid (1 can undrained)
½ cup unsalted butter (one stick = four ounces)
½ cup light brown sugar (firmly packed)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
¾ cup pecans (chopped)

How to Make Fruit Cocktail Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Step 2: Generously grease and flour a 9X13 inch baking pan.
Step 3: Add the granulated sugar, flour, lightly beaten eggs, vanilla, baking soda, salt, and fruit cocktail (including syrup) to a large bowl.
Step 4: Mix until well combined, using a rubber spatula to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Step 6: Place the pan on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Add the butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and vanilla to a saucepan and bring to a boil.
Step 8: Add the shredded coconut and pecans to the mixture and continue to boil, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes.
Step 9: Pour the mixture over the warm cake and spread into an even layer using a rubber spatula.
Step 10: Let the cake cool before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Fruit Cocktail Cake

Keep these in mind:

This cake can be served warm or at room temperature.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a layer of whipped cream, making it a delightful Fruit Dessert Cake.
If you prefer a slightly tropical taste, try using Fruit Cocktail Cake with Pineapple for a twist.

Best Ways to Serve Fruit Cocktail Cake

This cake shines when served with a dollop of whipped cream, enhancing its moist texture. Pairing it with vanilla ice cream makes for a delightful dessert experience. Another fantastic idea is to present it as a Fruit Salad Cake at parties, where guests can enjoy it alongside fresh fruit. You can also drizzle some chocolate sauce over it for an extra indulgent treat.

How to Store and Reheat Fruit Cocktail Cake

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will bring back the delightful aroma and flavor, making it feel like it’s just come out of the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fruit Cocktail Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Fruit Cocktail Cake?

The secret lies in using high-quality fruit cocktail and ensuring that you mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle. For added moisture, consider using a Moist Fruit Cocktail Cake Recipe that includes additional liquid ingredients.

Can I make Fruit Cocktail Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. It holds up well and allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste. This makes it a great choice for events or family meals.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Fruit Cocktail Cake?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Also, measure your flour correctly; too much flour can lead to a dry cake. Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.

Variations of Fruit Cocktail Cake You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to consider:

Make a Fruit Medley Cake by incorporating different fruits such as peaches or pears.
Try a Quick Fruit Cocktail Cake version by using a box cake mix as a base for quicker preparation.
For a tropical twist, replace the fruit cocktail with fresh tropical fruits to create a Tropical Fruit Cake.
Experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to change the texture and flavor.

Different variations of Fruit Cocktail Cake

For more delicious cake recipes, check out last recipes or Cranberry Orange Pancakes. If you’re looking for a savory dish, try Creamy Potato Soup or Gingerbread Cookies. For a unique twist, explore Sweet Potato Biscuits.

Old-Fashioned Fruit Cocktail Cake: 10 Sweet Memories

Author: basmer
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Old-Fashioned Fruit Cocktail Cake is a warm, sweet dessert that brings back nostalgic memories. It combines fruit cocktail, coconut, and pecans for a delightful taste.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Generously grease and flour a 9X13 inch baking pan.
Add the granulated sugar, flour, lightly beaten eggs, vanilla, baking soda, salt, and fruit cocktail (including syrup) to a large bowl.
Mix until well combined, using a rubber spatula to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Place the pan on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Add the butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and vanilla to a saucepan and bring to a boil.
Add the shredded coconut and pecans to the mixture and continue to boil, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes.
Pour the mixture over the warm cake and spread into an even layer using a rubber spatula.
Let the cake cool before serving.