No Bake Fruit Cake
No Bake Fruit Cake Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make
Introduction
No Bake Fruit Cake is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a no-bake version of the traditional fruit cake, making it a quick and convenient option for those who want to enjoy a fruity and nutty treat without the hassle of baking.
History
The origins of fruit cake can be traced back to ancient Rome, where a mixture of nuts, dried fruits, and honey was used to create a dense and sweet cake. Over the centuries, fruit cake has evolved into a popular dessert enjoyed around the world, especially during the holiday season. The no-bake version of fruit cake offers a modern twist on this classic recipe, providing a simple and delicious alternative for those who prefer not to use an oven.
Ingredients
- 1 box of graham crackers
- 1 lb (454 g) of walnuts
- 1 lb (454 g) of pecans
- 1 lb (454 g) of dark raisins
- 1 lb (454 g) of light raisins
- 1 lb (454 g) of currants
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar of maraschino cherries
- 1 jar of green cherries
- 1 small bag of miniature marshmallows
- 1 small box of figs
- 1 small box of dates
How to prepare
- Mix the ingredients together and press the mixture into a buttered cake mold.
- Leave the mold covered in the refrigerator for 24 hours.
- To remove the mixture from the mold, press a hot towel around the pan.
- Keep the mixture refrigerated.
Variations
- Add a splash of rum or brandy to the mixture for a boozy twist.
- Use different types of nuts or dried fruits to customize the flavor of the cake.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cake for an extra indulgent touch.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
- Pressing the mixture firmly into the cake mold will help the cake hold its shape when it is removed from the mold.
- Using a hot towel to loosen the cake from the mold will make it easier to remove without damaging the shape of the cake.
- Keeping the cake refrigerated will help it set and maintain its texture.
Serving Suggestions
No Bake Fruit Cake can be served on its own as a dessert or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
Cooking Techniques
The key cooking technique for this recipe is mixing the ingredients together and pressing the mixture into a cake mold. The cake does not require baking, making it a quick and easy dessert option.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute the walnuts and pecans with almonds or cashews.
- Use dried cranberries or apricots instead of raisins and currants.
- Replace the sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
No Bake Fruit Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it a convenient dessert option for parties or gatherings.
Presentation Ideas
Decorate the top of the cake with additional cherries, nuts, or dried fruits for a festive touch. You can also dust the cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant finish.
Pairing Recommendations
No Bake Fruit Cake pairs well with a glass of dessert wine, such as port or sherry. It also goes well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store the No Bake Fruit Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To serve, simply remove the cake from the refrigerator and slice it into individual portions.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of No Bake Fruit Cake contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of No Bake Fruit Cake contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of No Bake Fruit Cake contains approximately 20 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of No Bake Fruit Cake contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
No Bake Fruit Cake is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium due to the presence of fruits and nuts in the recipe.
Alergens
This recipe contains nuts and dairy (sweetened condensed milk), which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
No Bake Fruit Cake is a delicious dessert option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also offers essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious treat for those looking to indulge in a sweet treat.
Summary
No Bake Fruit Cake is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe offers a modern twist on the classic fruit cake, providing a quick and convenient option for those who want to enjoy a fruity and nutty treat without the hassle of baking. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals, this dessert is a nutritious and indulgent option for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth.
How did I get this recipe?
I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy kitchen. The tantalizing aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air as she bustled about, preparing for our afternoon tea.
As we sat down at the table, Martha reached for a small, tattered recipe book and began flipping through the pages. "Ah, here it is," she exclaimed, pointing to a faded yellowed page. "This is my no bake fruit cake recipe. It's been in my family for generations."
Intrigued, I leaned in closer to get a better look at the ingredients and instructions. The simplicity of the recipe surprised me – just a handful of ingredients and no need for an oven. "I must learn how to make this," I declared, feeling a spark of excitement at the prospect of adding a new recipe to my culinary repertoire.
Martha smiled warmly at my enthusiasm and began to guide me through the steps. She showed me how to mix the dried fruits, nuts, and spices together in a large bowl, and then gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk until everything was well combined.
Next, Martha demonstrated how to press the mixture into a loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create a neat, compact shape. "Now comes the hard part – the waiting," she chuckled, covering the pan with plastic wrap and placing it in the refrigerator to set overnight.
The next day, I eagerly unwrapped the pan to reveal a beautifully firm and fragrant fruit cake. The colors of the dried fruits shone like jewels against the golden-brown backdrop of the cake, and I couldn't resist taking a small bite to taste the fruits of my labor.
The flavors exploded in my mouth – sweet, tangy, and rich, with a hint of warmth from the spices. I was instantly transported back to my childhood, when my own grandmother would make a similar fruit cake for special occasions.
Over the years, I perfected the recipe, experimenting with different combinations of fruits and nuts to create unique variations. I shared my no bake fruit cake with friends and family, who raved about its delicious taste and simplicity.
As I grew older, my passion for cooking only deepened, and I began to collect recipes from all corners of the world. Each recipe held a story, a memory, a connection to someone or somewhere special.
And so, my no bake fruit cake recipe became more than just a dessert – it became a symbol of my love for cooking, my appreciation for tradition, and my desire to share delicious food with those I hold dear.
Now, as I pass this recipe down to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will cherish it as much as I have. May it remind you of the joy of cooking, the beauty of simplicity, and the power of sharing good food with others.
And who knows? Perhaps one day, you too will find yourself in a cozy kitchen, sharing this recipe with a friend, and passing on the tradition for generations to come.
Categories
| American Recipes | Cake Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Cherry Recipes | Currant Recipes | Dates Recipes | Maraschino Cherry Recipes | No-bake Dessert Recipes | Raisin Recipes |