When it comes to baking and cooking desserts, many people often overlook one of the most versatile and convenient ingredients: canned fruit. Specifically, canned fruit cocktails are a treasure trove of flavors and textures just waiting to be used in all sorts of sweet treats. From classic cakes and pies to creamy salads and refreshing popsicles, there’s nothing that can’t be made with this tasty ingredient. In this article, we’ll explore 20 scrumptious dessert recipes that feature canned fruit cocktail as the star of the show. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, these mouth-watering ideas are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Fruit Cocktail Upside-Down Cake
A moist and flavorful cake filled with a sweet and tangy fruit topping, this Fruit Cocktail Upside-Down Cake is perfect for any occasion. With its caramelized pineapple rings and cherries, it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fruit cocktail (pineapple, cherries, and citrus)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Arrange fruit cocktail slices on the prepared cake pan.
5. Pour batter over fruit, spreading evenly to cover.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Easy Fruit Cocktail Trifle
Easy Fruit Cocktail Trifle Recipe
Start your next gathering with a sweet and refreshing dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy! This Easy Fruit Cocktail Trifle combines layers of fresh fruit, creamy whipped cream, and crunchy cookies for a treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 cup mandarin oranges, peeled and segmented
• 1/2 cup crushed vanilla wafers or ladyfingers
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In separate bowls, hull strawberries and blueberries. Slice pineapple into wedges. Segment mandarin oranges.
3. Begin building the trifle by spreading a layer of whipped cream on the bottom of a 9×13 inch serving dish.
4. Arrange half of the mixed berries on top of the whipped cream.
5. Add a layer of crushed cookies, followed by a layer of pineapple and mandarin orange segments.
6. Repeat steps 3-5, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
7. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top of the trifle.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and refrigerate until serving.
Creamy Fruit Cocktail Salad
A refreshing and colorful salad perfect for hot summer days, this Creamy Fruit Cocktail Salad combines the sweetness of fruit with a tangy creaminess. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful side dish or light dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup mixed fruit (such as strawberries, grapes, pineapple, and banana)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Add the mixed fruit, honey, and vanilla extract to the whipped cream. Gently fold until the fruit is evenly distributed.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fruit Cocktail Jello Dessert
A refreshing and light dessert perfect for warm weather or any occasion. This fruit cocktail jello dessert is easy to make and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened fruit cocktail gelatin
– 2 cups cold water
– 1 cup mixed fruit (such as pineapple, orange, grapefruit, and lemon)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the fruit cocktail gelatin in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour the gelatin mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or mold.
4. Arrange the mixed fruit on top of the jello layer.
5. Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the fruit.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None
Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake
A moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion, this Fruit Cocktail Dump Cake is a twist on the classic dump cake recipe. By using canned fruit cocktail, you’ll save time and effort without sacrificing taste or texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of fruit cocktail (drained)
– 1 box of yellow cake mix
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped nuts or whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, heavy cream, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour in the drained fruit cocktail and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before serving. Optional: top with chopped nuts or whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fruit Cocktail Icebox Pie
Beat the heat with this easy-to-make Fruit Cocktail Icebox Pie, perfect for hot summer days. This classic dessert is a staple at many backyard gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fruit cocktail (drained)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Whipped cream and additional fruit, if desired
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, fruit cocktail, and lemon juice.
4. Pour filling into prepared crust. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and additional fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (this pie is chilled in the refrigerator)
Fruit Cocktail Cobbler
A sweet and tangy dessert that combines fresh fruit with a crispy biscuit topping, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed fruit (such as peaches, pineapple, mandarin oranges, and cherries)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed fruit and granulated sugar. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, until the fruit releases its juice.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter, heavy cream, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Pour the fruit mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Roll out the dough to fit the top of the dish, pressing edges to seal.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fruit Cocktail Bread Pudding
This Fruit Cocktail Bread Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of bread, the tanginess of fruit cocktail, and the warmth of spices. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup mixed fruit cocktail (drained)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, fruit cocktail, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients; mix until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fruit Cocktail Cheesecake Bars
Elevate your dessert game with these creamy and fruity cheesecake bars, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fruit cocktail (drained and chopped)
– 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into an 8-inch square baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped fruit cocktail.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Fruit Cocktail Panna Cotta
This recipe combines the creamy texture of panna cotta with the sweetness of fruit cocktail, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fruit cocktail (drained)
– Fresh fruit, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
3. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Just before serving, top with fruit cocktail and garnish with fresh fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking time) + 4 hours (chilling time)
Fruit Cocktail Parfait
A refreshing and colorful dessert perfect for warm weather or any time you crave a sweet treat. This Fruit Cocktail Parfait is easy to make and requires no cooking, making it a great option for a quick snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup mixed fruit cocktail (such as pineapple, orange, grapefruit, and peach)
– 1/2 cup granola or cookie crumbs
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the mixed fruit cocktail until well combined.
3. Spoon half of the whipped cream mixture into small glasses or parfait dishes.
4. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of granola or cookie crumbs over the whipped cream layer.
5. Drizzle with honey to taste.
6. Top with the remaining whipped cream mixture and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Fruit Cocktail Angel Food Cake
Fruit Cocktail Angel Food Cake Recipe
A light and airy cake filled with the sweetness of fruit cocktail, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup egg whites (about 4 large eggs)
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup fruit cocktail, drained and chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sift flour into a medium bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar to egg mixture and continue beating until smooth.
4. Fold in sifted flour and chopped fruit cocktail.
5. Pour batter into an ungreased angel food cake pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until top is golden brown and cake springs back when touched.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely on wire rack.
Yield: 8-10 servings
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fruit Cocktail Chiffon Pie
This Fruit Cocktail Chiffon Pie is a classic dessert that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. With its fluffy texture and sweet, fruity flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at your next potluck or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fruit cocktail (drained)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Add melted butter and whisk until combined.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the whipped cream until no white streaks remain.
5. Stir in drained fruit cocktail.
6. Pour filling into pie crust and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fruit Cocktail Muffins
Brighten up your morning with these moist and flavorful Fruit Cocktail Muffins, packed with a mix of juicy fruits and warm spices. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mixed fruit cocktail (such as mandarin oranges, pineapple, and cherries)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, fruit cocktail, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Fruit Cocktail Smoothie Bowl
Get ready to start your day with a refreshing and healthy twist on the classic smoothie bowl! This recipe combines the sweetness of fruit with the creaminess of yogurt, topped with crunchy granola and fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: granola, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen berries, Greek yogurt, milk, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with granola, sliced strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Fruit Cocktail Sorbet
Beat the heat with this light and fruity sorbet, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a sweet treat any time of the year. This recipe combines a mix of juicy fruits in a refreshing sorbet that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed fruit (such as pineapple, orange, grapefruit, mango, and kiwi)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the mixed fruit until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and pureed fruit.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (chilled and frozen)
Fruit Cocktail Pancake Topping
Elevate your pancakes with this sweet and tangy fruit cocktail topping! Made with a mix of juicy fruits, it’s the perfect combination for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed fruit (such as pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapefruit, and cherries)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mixed fruit.
2. Drizzle the honey over the fruit and toss until coated.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the fruit and mix well.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Fruit Cocktail Yogurt Bark
This colorful bark combines the sweetness of fruit cocktail with the tanginess of yogurt, perfect for a light and satisfying snack. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s ideal for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup fruit cocktail ( mandarin oranges, pineapple, cherries, and pineapple)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup granola or cereal
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Spread the yogurt mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Top with fruit cocktail, granola or cereal, and chopped fresh mint leaves (if using).
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking, just assembly and chilling.
Fruit Cocktail Rice Pudding
This recipe combines creamy rice pudding with the sweetness of fruit cocktail, creating a unique and delightful dessert. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup fruit cocktail (drained)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and creamy.
3. Stir in cinnamon and melted butter.
4. Add fruit cocktail and stir until well combined.
5. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Fruit Cocktail Tartlets
A sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings! These bite-sized tartlets are filled with a colorful mix of fruits and topped with a crunchy streusel topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen fruit cocktail, thawed
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, flour, and salt. Sprinkle mixture evenly over the center of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Spoon thawed fruit cocktail onto the sugared area, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Fold the pastry squares in half to form triangles, pressing edges to seal. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped mint leaves (if using).
6. Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering dessert recipes that feature canned fruit cocktail as the main ingredient. From classic cakes and pies to creative trifles and parfaits, these sweet treats are sure to satisfy your cravings. Try making a Fruit Cocktail Upside-Down Cake or an Easy Fruit Cocktail Trifle for a crowd-pleasing dessert. Alternatively, whip up a Creamy Fruit Cocktail Salad or a refreshing Fruit Cocktail Sorbet for a lighter treat. Whatever your taste buds desire, this article has got you covered with a wide range of delicious and easy-to-make fruit cocktail desserts.