If you’re craving a vibrant and refreshing treat, this Fruit Cocktail Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with a colorful mix of mandarin oranges, peaches, cherries, pineapple, and pears, combined with a subtly sweet and zesty lime-basil syrup, it’s like a celebration in every bite. Perfectly balanced between juicy sweetness and a hint of tang, this recipe brings together fresh and canned fruits for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert or snack that feels like sunshine in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of a shiny silver pot filled with light brown soup, with three fresh green basil leaves floating on the surface. The pot is held by a woman's hand. The pot sits on a white checkered cloth with blue lines, placed on a white marbled surface. To the right of the pot, there are two squeezed lime halves and some green herbs. Below the pot, there is a wooden round board with a shiny silver spoon resting on it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Fruit Cocktail Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. Each component adds a unique touch — the fruit variety brings a rainbow of flavors and textures, while the homemade syrup bonds everything with subtle sweetness and a bright citrus note.

Water: The base for the syrup, ensuring it blends smoothly with the sugar and lime juice.
Sugar: Sweetens the syrup just enough to enhance the fruit without overpowering.
Lime Juice: Adds a fresh tang that lifts the entire flavor profile beautifully.
Mandarin Oranges: Provide juicy bursts of sweetness with a delicate citrus charm.
Peaches: Offer tender, aromatic slices that complement the citrus and berries perfectly.
Dark Sweet Cherries: Bring a rich, deep color and a mild tartness for complexity.
Pineapple Chunks: Add tropical zest and juicy texture that balance the mix.
Pears: Give buttery softness and a subtle floral note to the cocktail.
Whipped Cream (optional): A light, creamy topping that adds indulgence if desired.

How to Make Fruit Cocktail Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lime-Basil Syrup

Start by gently heating water, sugar, lime juice, and fresh basil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely, then remove from heat and toss out the basil leaves. This syrup is the secret ingredient that adds a refreshing and zesty twist to the fruit cocktail, keeping it light and vibrant.

Step 2: Combine the Fruits

Peel and slice the fresh fruits if using fresh, or drain the canned versions well. Then place the mandarin oranges, cherries, pineapple chunks, pears, and peaches in a large bowl. Gently toss them together to mix their textures and flavors evenly, preparing them to soak up the syrup perfectly.

Step 3: Toss with Syrup and Chill

Pour the fragrant lime-basil syrup over the fruit mixture and carefully toss again to coat every piece with the flavorful liquid. Transfer the bowl to the refrigerator and chill for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the fruit soak up the syrupy goodness.

How to Serve Fruit Cocktail Recipe

The image shows a clear glass bowl filled with a colorful fruit salad placed on a white marbled surface. The bowl contains three main layers of fruit: bright orange slices, dark red cherries, and small white fruit pieces mixed evenly throughout. A wooden spoon is resting inside the bowl on the right side, partially submerged in the fruit. Below the bowl, there is a small wooden board with a silver spoon resting on it. Some green leaves are placed on the lower right side of the scene, adding a fresh touch. The background includes a piece of cloth with blue and white stripes underneath the bowl and some more green leaves in the upper part of the frame. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your Fruit Cocktail Recipe by adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a touch of creaminess. A sprig of fresh basil or a twist of lime zest on top also adds a gorgeous aroma and visual appeal that makes serving this fruit cocktail feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This luscious fruit cocktail pairs beautifully with light breakfasts like yogurt and granola, or as a refreshing finish to a brunch spread alongside fluffy pancakes or waffles. It’s also a tasty complement to savory dishes such as grilled chicken or fish, creating a balanced and festive meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the fruit cocktail in hollowed-out pineapple halves or colorful glass bowls to highlight its vibrant hues. You can also layer the fruit with yogurt and granola in parfait glasses for a pretty, layered dessert that wows guests with both its look and taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover fruit cocktail should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed on the day you make it to keep all the fruits’ textures intact.

Freezing

Freezing the fruit cocktail is not recommended because the fruits will become mushy once thawed, losing their delightful texture. If you want to prepare a make-ahead syrup, that’s easy to freeze separately and use fresh fruits when ready to serve.

Reheating

This fruit cocktail is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not applicable. Just give it a gentle stir before serving if it’s been chilled for a while to redistribute the syrup evenly.

FAQs

Can I use all fresh fruit instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh fruit gives the cocktail a crisp texture and vibrant flavor, but canned fruit adds convenience and a soft sweetness. Feel free to combine both as the recipe suggests, or use all fresh for the best freshness.

What can I substitute for basil in the syrup?

If you’re not a fan of basil, you can omit it or try fresh mint for a different but equally refreshing herbal note in the syrup.

How long can the Fruit Cocktail Recipe be stored in the fridge?

It’s best enjoyed within 2 days of preparation as the fruits may start to lose their texture and become watery after that.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes! The natural sweetness from the fruit and the mild syrup make it a wholesome and delicious treat that kids usually love.

Can I make this Fruit Cocktail Recipe vegan?

Definitely! The recipe is naturally vegan unless you choose to serve it with whipped cream, in which case you can opt for a dairy-free alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Fruit Cocktail Recipe is such a delightful way to brighten any day with fresh, sweet, and tangy flavors all mingled perfectly. Whether you want a quick snack, a healthy dessert, or a pretty side dish, this recipe never disappoints. Give it a try soon — I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to treats as it has for me!