Delightfully Warm Hot Fruit Compote: A Perfect Holiday Treat
As the cooler weather settles in, there’s nothing quite as comforting and delightful as a warm fruit compote, especially when it makes its appearance on your holiday table. This Hot Fruit Compote, which has been a cherished dish at my Thanksgiving brunch with my in-laws for the past three years, is not only incredibly simple to prepare but also an absolute crowd-pleaser. Its sweet and tangy flavors meld beautifully, creating a warm, inviting dish that guests are always eager to take home as leftovers. Here’s how you can create this delectable treat that is sure to add warmth and cheer to your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dark sweet cherries | 8 oz |
| Pineapple chunks | 1 cup |
| Cherry pie filling | 1 can (21 oz) |
| Brandy | 1 tbsp |
| Coconut macaroons (or toasted coconut) | 1 cup (7 oz) |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Nutmeg | 1/2 tsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 495.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 4.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 104.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 101.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.5 g |
| Sugars | 66.7 g |
| Protein | 3.8 g |
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
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Gather Your Ingredients: Begin by ensuring all ingredients are ready and measured. If coconut macaroons are unavailable, feel free to toast plain coconut instead. If using toasted coconut, aim for a 7 oz or 14 oz bag, depending on your preference for coconut flavor.
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Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 400°F (204°C). This ensures that when it’s time to bake, your dish is greeted with the perfect temperature.
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Toast the Coconut Macaroons: Spread the macaroons (or toasted coconut) evenly across a shallow cookie sheet. Place them in the preheated oven for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are lightly toasted and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
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Prepare the Casserole Dish: Once the macaroons are toasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Grease a 2 ½-quart casserole dish lightly to ensure easy serving after baking.
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Layer the Ingredients: Start layering in the following order:
- First, sprinkle half of the toasted macaroons across the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Next, evenly distribute the dark sweet cherries over the macaroons.
- Follow this with a layer of pineapple chunks, and then pour the cherry pie filling evenly on top.
- Drizzle the brandy over the layers, enhancing the flavor with its rich aroma.
- Finally, sprinkle the remaining macaroons over the top for a delightful crunchy finish.
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Refrigerate: Once everything is layered beautifully in the casserole dish, cover it tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 8 hours, or if time permits, overnight. This refrigeration time allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously.
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Prepare for Baking: About 30 minutes before you plan to serve the compote, take the dish out of the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature. This step helps the dish bake evenly.
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Bake the Compote: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the uncovered casserole for approximately 35 to 45 minutes, or until it is bubbling and warmed through. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely have everyone gathering around!
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the compote from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This warm, sweet dish can be enjoyed on its own, or paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Conclusion
This Hot Fruit Compote, with its festive flavors and heartwarming warmth, makes for a wonderful addition to any holiday gathering or a cozy family brunch. Easy to prepare yet impressively delicious, it’s a recipe that truly embodies the spirit of the season. So, gather your loved ones, serve this delightful dish, and watch as they savor every bite, all while creating beautiful memories that will last long after the last spoonful has been enjoyed.
