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–+ servings
Fruit Cocktail Cake
Fruit Cocktail Cake is a classic mid-century home-baked dessert that became popular when canned fruit cocktails were a pantry staple across American kitchens. Designed to be simple and economical, this cake uses the fruit along with its juice, eliminating the need for added fat while delivering natural sweetness and moisture. The batter comes together quickly with basic baking ingredients, then finishes with a crunchy brown sugar and nut topping that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Its appeal lies in its balance of soft crumb and crisp topping, making it a dependable dessert for gatherings, potlucks, and everyday baking when convenience and flavor matter most.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 9
Calories 360 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 egg (large)
  • 15 oz fruit cocktail (undrained)
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup nuts (chopped, walnuts or pecans)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Batter

  • Beat egg lightly.
  • Add fruit cocktail with juice and mix gently.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • Sift flour.
  • Sift again with sugar and baking soda.

Step 3: Mix Batter

  • Add dry ingredients to liquid mixture.
  • Stir just until combined.
  • Do not beat.

Step 4: Flavor Batter

  • Add vanilla extract.
  • Stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Prepare Pan

  • Grease and flour an oblong baking pan.
  • Pour batter evenly into pan.

Step 6: Add Topping

  • Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over batter.
  • Spread chopped nuts over the top.

Step 7: Bake

  • Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes.
  • Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips

  • Use walnuts or pecans for different flavor profiles
  • Serve warm with whipped cream
  • Add cinnamon to the brown sugar topping
  • Toast nuts beforehand for deeper flavor
  • Use a glass baking dish for even browning
  • Reduce sugar slightly for a less sweet version
  • Add shredded coconut to the topping

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 5gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 2gSugar: 40gVitamin A: 160IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1.8mg
Keyword easy cake, fruit cocktail dessert, old-fashioned dessert, pantry baking, retro baking, vintage cake
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