Oh, friend—get ready for a slice of pure nostalgia! This Fruit Cocktail Cake is like a warm hug from the past, the kind of dessert your grandma might’ve made, with its sweet, tender crumb and that irresistible, syrupy glaze on top. It’s simple, it’s homey, and it delivers big on cozy vibes.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Imagine the smell of vanilla and brown sugar wafting through your kitchen as it bakes, and the way the fruit melts right into the batter, creating a soft and luscious texture. The top turns beautifully golden with a light crunch, while the inside stays moist and rich. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for any occasion—easy enough for weeknights, but nostalgic and comforting enough to serve at any gathering.
Let’s get into why you’re going to absolutely love this cake…
Why You’ll Love Fruit Cocktail Cake
Versatile
Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly
Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy
Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable
Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Prefer something with a nutty twist? Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter.
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Fruit Cocktail Cake
Here’s what makes this cake extra special—it’s made with humble pantry staples, but the result? Absolutely crave-worthy. Let’s break it down:
All-Purpose Flour: The structure that holds everything together. It creates that soft and tender cake crumb we all love.
Granulated Sugar: Brings the sweetness and helps caramelize the edges to golden perfection.
Eggs: These give the cake richness and moisture. Think soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Baking Soda: The magic leavening agent that keeps the cake light and fluffy—especially important since the fruit cocktail adds so much moisture.
Vanilla Extract: That warm, aromatic hint that ties all the flavors together.
Fruit Cocktail (with juice): The star ingredient. The syrupy fruit melts into the batter and infuses every bite with sweetness and a touch of tropical flavor.
Brown Sugar (for topping): Sprinkled on top before baking, it adds a caramelized, slightly crunchy layer that’s absolutely divine.
Butter and Evaporated Milk (for glaze): Once heated and poured over the warm cake, it soaks in and makes everything extra moist and luxurious.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures even cooking and gives your cake the right texture. Preheating is a small but essential step that sets the stage for success.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, and undrained fruit cocktail. Stir just until everything is combined and smooth. You want a thick, luscious batter speckled with bits of fruit.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and helps your cake lift easily after baking.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the batter into your prepared dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the top—this will caramelize into a golden crust as it bakes.
Cook to Perfection: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly crisp while the inside stays moist.
Finishing Touches: While the cake is baking, prepare your glaze by heating butter and evaporated milk in a saucepan until melted and combined. Pour it over the cake as soon as it comes out of the oven.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes so the glaze can soak in. Then serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pure bliss.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 320
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
How to Serve Fruit Cocktail Cake
This cake is a stunner on its own, but here are a few ways to serve it that make it extra special:
Fresh Salads: While not a traditional pairing, serving a light fruit or green salad on the side can balance out the richness.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings that café-style finish.
Vanilla Ice Cream: This cake and a scoop of creamy vanilla? A match made in dessert heaven.
Toasted Nuts: Garnish with chopped, toasted pecans or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
As a Standalone: Honestly, this cake doesn’t need a thing. Just cut a square, serve warm, and enjoy the simple, sweet magic.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Mix your dry ingredients and store them in a container for easy prep later in the week.
Spice It Up: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the batter adds warm spice that pairs beautifully with the fruit.
Dietary Adjustments: Use a gluten-free flour blend or dairy-free butter and milk alternatives for a more inclusive dessert.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It stays moist and delicious.
Double the Batch: Hosting a crowd? This cake doubles easily. Bake in two pans or one extra-large dish and watch it disappear.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute the fruit cocktail with fresh fruit?
A1: You can! Just make sure to add some liquid (like fruit juice or a splash of milk) to replace the syrup. It may alter the texture slightly, but still delicious.
Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A2: Definitely. It keeps well and can be made a day in advance. Just warm slightly before serving for the best texture.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 3 days. It stays moist and flavorful.
Q4: Can I freeze this cake?
A4: Yes! Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently to serve.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Microwave individual slices for 15–20 seconds or reheat in a 300°F oven until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Totally. Use a larger baking dish or two pans, and adjust the baking time as needed.
Q7: Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose?
A7: Yes, just omit the baking soda if you do, since self-rising flour already includes leavening agents.
Q8: Can I add nuts or coconut to the batter?
A8: Absolutely! Both add wonderful texture and flavor. Fold them in gently before pouring the batter into the pan.
Q9: Is the glaze necessary?
A9: The glaze adds moisture and richness, but you can skip it for a less sweet version. It’s still amazing!
Q10: Can I make this into cupcakes or muffins?
A10: Yes, just reduce the baking time to 18–22 minutes and use a toothpick to test doneness.
Conclusion
Fruit Cocktail Cake is one of those timeless, no-fuss desserts that just hits the spot every single time. It’s warm, gooey, and filled with the sweet surprise of tender fruit in every bite. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this cake will quickly become a go-to in your recipe box.
So grab that can of fruit cocktail from the pantry, and let’s make something truly heartwarming—because sometimes, the simplest ingredients really do create the most unforgettable desserts.
Print
Fruit Cocktail Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This retro Fruit Cocktail Cake is incredibly moist, naturally sweetened with canned fruit, and topped with a luscious coconut-pecan frosting. A comforting, nostalgic dessert perfect for potlucks or family dinners! #homemaderecipes #easybaking #vintagedesserts #fruitcocktailcake #quickdesserts
Ingredients
- For the cake:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 can fruit cocktail in heavy syrup (15.25 ounces, undrained)
- For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 can evaporated milk (5 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 3/4 cup flaked coconut, sweetened or unsweetened, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch cake pan with nonstick spray and line with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and eggs until light in color. Add vanilla and whisk to combine.
- Using a spatula, stir in flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and the undrained fruit cocktail. Stir just until combined.
- Spread the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- About 10 minutes before the cake is done, prepare the frosting. In a saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and evaporated milk over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, pecans, and coconut.
- Once cake is out of the oven, poke holes across the top with a fork. Pour hot frosting over the cake and spread evenly.
- Let cool at least 15–20 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use sweetened coconut for a richer frosting, or unsweetened to tone down the sweetness.
- This cake stays moist for days—perfect for make-ahead desserts.
- For an even nuttier flavor, add a splash of almond extract to the batter or frosting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg