Dessert Recipes

By Taryn Chavez

18 Delicious Canned Fruit Cocktail Recipes for Every Occasion

Are you looking for a quick and delicious way to add some flavor and excitement to your meals? Look no further than canned fruit cocktail! This versatile ingredient can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes, from breakfast to dessert. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a healthy snack, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes that will show you the many uses of canned fruit cocktail.

In this article, we’ll explore everything from classic desserts like cakes and puddings, to creative twists on traditional dishes like smoothies and salsas. You’ll also find sweet treats like muffins and popsicles, as well as savory options like BBQ sauce for grilled meats. And the best part? These recipes are all quick, easy, and budget-friendly.

So what are you waiting for? Dive in and discover the many delicious ways to use canned fruit cocktail!

Tropical Fruit Cocktail Salad with Coconut Dressing

Tropical Fruit Cocktail Salad with Coconut Dressing
Rejuvenate your senses with this refreshing salad that combines the sweetness of tropical fruits with the creamy richness of coconut dressing.

Ingredients:
• 1 cup mixed tropical fruit (mango, pineapple, kiwi, and papaya), diced
• 1/2 cup coconut cream
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt to taste
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the tropical fruit and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut cream, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
3. Pour the coconut dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve chilled.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Easy Fruit Cocktail Cake with Vanilla Glaze

Easy Fruit Cocktail Cake with Vanilla Glaze
This moist and flavorful cake is packed with a colorful mix of fruits, making it perfect for any occasion. Top it off with a sweet and creamy vanilla glaze for an added touch of elegance.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup mixed fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and pineapple)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Stir in mixed fruit, eggs, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before glazing.

Vanilla Glaze:

– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whisk together powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.

Fruit Cocktail Yogurt Parfait with Granola

Fruit Cocktail Yogurt Parfait with Granola
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing and nutritious parfait that combines the sweetness of fruit, tanginess of yogurt, and crunch of granola.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1/2 cup mixed fruit cocktail (such as pineapple, orange, grapefruit, and kiwi)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the mixed fruit cocktail.
4. Sprinkle with half of the granola.
5. Repeat the layers (yogurt, fruit, granola).
6. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe.

Quick Fruit Cocktail Smoothie with Banana and Honey

Quick Fruit Cocktail Smoothie with Banana and Honey
Start your day with a refreshing and healthy smoothie that combines the natural sweetness of banana, honey, and mixed fruit. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick energy boost.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe banana
– 1 cup frozen mixed fruit (such as berries, pineapple, and orange)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the banana, mixed fruit, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the plain yogurt and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes for a thicker, colder smoothie.

Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes

Baked Fruit Cocktail Crumble with Oat Topping

Baked Fruit Cocktail Crumble with Oat Topping
A sweet and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this Baked Fruit Cocktail Crumble with Oat Topping is a delicious way to enjoy your favorite fruits. With a crunchy oat topping and a flavorful fruit mixture, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups mixed fruit cocktail (such as mandarin oranges, pineapple, and grapes)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine fruit cocktail, granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Mix well.
3. Transfer the fruit mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top the fruit with the oat mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Fruit Cocktail Jello Mold with Whipped Cream

Fruit Cocktail Jello Mold with Whipped Cream
Create a colorful and refreshing dessert with this easy-to-make Fruit Cocktail Jello Mold with Whipped Cream recipe. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened fruit cocktail jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups mixed fruit (such as pineapple, orange, grapefruit, and lemon)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until completely dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or a mold of your choice.
4. Refrigerate until set, about 3 hours.
5. Whip heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Fold in mixed fruit.
7. Top the jello mold with whipped cream and dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Cooking Time: None

Tips:

– Use a flavorless gelatin to avoid affecting the taste of your whipped cream.
– You can customize the mixed fruit to your liking or use canned mandarin oranges for added sweetness.

Fruit Cocktail Pancake Topping with Cinnamon

Fruit Cocktail Pancake Topping with Cinnamon
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this sweet and tangy topping, perfect for pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream! This fruit cocktail pancake topping with cinnamon adds a burst of flavor to any dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh fruit cocktail (such as mandarin oranges, pineapple, and kiwi)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the fruit cocktail, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the fruit is tender (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Cooking Time: None

Use this topping to elevate your favorite pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream! Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Enjoy!

Fruit Cocktail Ice Cream Sundae with Caramel Sauce

Fruit Cocktail Ice Cream Sundae with Caramel Sauce
Experience the sweet combination of tropical flavors with this refreshing sundae! This recipe is perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

– 1 pint of fruit cocktail ice cream
– 1 cup of caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Scoop the fruit cocktail ice cream into a bowl.
2. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the ice cream, creating a swirly pattern.
3. If desired, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None! This sundae is ready in just a few minutes.

Fruit Cocktail Bread Pudding with Custard

Fruit Cocktail Bread Pudding with Custard
A sweet treat perfect for any occasion, this fruit cocktail bread pudding with custard is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup mixed fruit (cocktail), drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, chopped fruit, and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While the pudding is baking, prepare the custard by whisking together 1 cup heavy cream, 2 large egg yolks, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar.
7. Remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly before pouring the warm custard over the top.
8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the custard is set.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Fruit Cocktail Chia Pudding with Almond Milk

Fruit Cocktail Chia Pudding with Almond Milk
Rejuvenate your breakfast routine with this vibrant and nutritious chia pudding recipe, infused with the sweetness of fruit cocktail and creamy almond milk.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup fruit cocktail (drained)
– Fresh fruit for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Stir well to combine.
2. Add honey and vanilla extract; stir until dissolved.
3. Refrigerate mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow chia seeds to gel.
4. Just before serving, stir in drained fruit cocktail.
5. Spoon pudding into individual cups or a large serving dish. Garnish with fresh fruit, if desired.

Cooking Time: None required! Chia pudding sets in the refrigerator.

Fruit Cocktail Salsa with Cinnamon Chips

Fruit Cocktail Salsa with Cinnamon Chips
Fruit Cocktail Salsa with Cinnamon Chips Recipe

Elevate your snack game with this sweet and tangy fruit cocktail salsa paired with crunchy cinnamon chips. Perfect for a quick indulgence or as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or veggies.

Ingredients:
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 cup diced pineapple
• 1/4 cup chopped peaches
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine mixed berries, pineapple, and peaches.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar and lime juice until dissolved.
3. Add the sugar mixture to the fruit mixture; stir well.
4. Fold in chopped jalapeño pepper.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cinnamon Chips:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cut cinnamon-flavored crackers or tortilla chips into desired shapes.
3. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Serve the fruit cocktail salsa with warm cinnamon chips for a delightful snack!

Fruit Cocktail Popsicles with Lime Zest

Fruit Cocktail Popsicles with Lime Zest
Beat the heat with these vibrant popsicles featuring a colorful mix of fruits, zesty lime flavor, and a hint of sweetness.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup mixed fruit cocktail (grapes, pineapple, orange, lemon)
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Lime zest for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the fruit cocktail until smooth.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
3. Add the lime juice to the yogurt mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Fold in the blended fruit cocktail into the yogurt mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups.
6. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Just before serving, garnish with a sprinkle of lime zest.

Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight (depending on freezer temperature)

Fruit Cocktail Muffins with Streusel Topping

Fruit Cocktail Muffins with Streusel Topping
These moist and flavorful muffins are packed with a mix of juicy fruits, perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat. The crunchy streusel topping adds a delightful textural contrast to each bite.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mixed fruit cocktail (pineapple, orange, cherry)
– 1 large egg
– Streusel Topping ingredients: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/2 tablespoon cold unsalted butter

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. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, fruit cocktail, and egg. Stir until well combined.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Prepare Streusel Topping by mixing all ingredients in a small bowl until crumbly.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Top each with streusel topping.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Fruit Cocktail Trifle with Vanilla Pudding

Fruit Cocktail Trifle with Vanilla Pudding
Elevate your dessert game with this colorful and delicious fruit cocktail trifle featuring vanilla pudding, perfect for warm weather gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsalted butter-flavored instant vanilla pudding mix
– 2 cups fruit cocktail (drained)
– 1 cup whipped topping, thawed
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 cup fresh strawberry slices
– 1 cup fresh kiwi slices

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Prepare the vanilla pudding mix according to package instructions.
3. Fold whipped topping into the cooled pudding mixture until well combined.
4. Layer pudding mixture, fruit cocktail, pineapple, strawberry, and kiwi in a 9×13-inch serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including preparation)

Fruit Cocktail Oatmeal with Brown Sugar

Fruit Cocktail Oatmeal with Brown Sugar
Start your day off right with this delicious and easy-to-make oatmeal recipe, infused with the sweetness of brown sugar and the natural flavors of fruit cocktail.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 cup canned fruit cocktail, drained
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: raisins, chopped nuts, or vanilla extract for added flavor

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats and cook, stirring occasionally, until they reach your desired consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
4. Fold in the drained fruit cocktail and sprinkle with salt.
5. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Fruit Cocktail Crepes with Chocolate Drizzle

Fruit Cocktail Crepes with Chocolate Drizzle
Fruit Cocktail Crepes with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe

Summary: These delicate crepes filled with a vibrant fruit cocktail mixture are a perfect treat for any occasion, topped with a rich and decadent chocolate drizzle.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Fruit cocktail filling (see below)
– Chocolate drizzle ingredients (see below)

Fruit Cocktail Filling:

– 1 cup mixed fruit cocktail (such as mandarin oranges, pineapple, and grapes)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Chocolate Drizzle:

– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and mix until smooth.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour in a small amount of batter (about 1/8 cup) and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until edges start to curl, then flip and cook for another minute.
6. Repeat with remaining batter.
7. Fill crepes with fruit cocktail mixture and drizzle with chocolate sauce.

Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (depending on number of crepes).

Fruit Cocktail Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust

Fruit Cocktail Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust
These creamy cheesecake bars get a burst of flavor from a fruit cocktail filling, all wrapped up in a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert to impress.

Ingredients:

For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons melted butter

For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fruit cocktail (drained)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Stir in fruit cocktail.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until set.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Fruit Cocktail BBQ Sauce for Grilled Meats

Fruit Cocktail BBQ Sauce for Grilled Meats
Elevate your grilled meats with this unique and delicious Fruit Cocktail BBQ Sauce. A perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup crushed pineapple
– 1/4 cup crushed mandarin oranges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, crushed pineapple, crushed mandarin oranges, and garlic.
2. Whisk until smooth and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: None, as this sauce is best served warm or at room temperature.

Summary

Get creative with your canned fruit cocktail! This article features 18 delicious recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From sweet treats like fruit cocktail cake and muffins, to savory dishes like salsa and BBQ sauce, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find refreshing desserts like popsicles and ice cream sundaes, as well as healthy options like yogurt parfaits and oatmeal bowls. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick snack, these recipes are sure to impress.

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