How do you usually serve your fruitcake?

Fruitcake is a Christmas classic that has stood the test of time. Sure, it may have gained numerous bashers through the years, but this divisive dessert isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

So now you’re stuck with a loaf you got from your Secret Santa. Don’t just leave it to bide time in the fridge. Give this dense, boozy cake a much-deserved makeover! You can transform it into an irresistible treat to serve at parties or selfishly consume on your lonesome. Take your pick from these eight fun ideas that prove why this Christmas cake is the gift that keeps on giving.

1. Cake Pops

Cake pops are ingenious. Bakers invented these bite-sized balls to use up leftover cake and icing. And now you can do the same! Making these treats is a cinch. Crumble your cake, and then mix in some icing. Be sure to add enough so you can easily form balls. Once they’re ready, poke them with sticks and dip them in melted chocolate. Leave them to set in the fridge before serving.

2. French Toast

French immigrants in America popularized this dessert which has since become a breakfast staple. The key to a winning French toast is using stale, dried-out bread. That’s because they can soak up more of that custard base compared to the fresh kind.

Now is your chance to finish your months-old Christmas cake! Or if it’s freshly delivered, toast some slices and let them cool. Next, dip them into a mixture of eggs and milk. You won’t need spices anymore because your cake is packed with so much flavor already. Fry them in a skillet with butter until slightly crisp. Don’t forget to serve your toast with maple syrup and fresh fruits.

3. Waffles

Breakfast for dessert or dessert for breakfast? Waffles work both ways! If you want to indulge in a sweet treat that won’t require heavy lifting, go this route.

How to make fruitcake waffles? Crumble up your cake, fold them into your waffle batter, and cook until toasty. Double the fun by serving them topped with scoops of Selecta Super Thick Vanilla Ice Cream. Or get playful and choose chocolate, mango, or strawberry!

4. Cheesecake Crust

Transform your usual cheesecake recipe by making a base out of fruitcake crumbs. Start by blitzing your loaf in a food processor (or use your hands!) until you get fine, even crumbs. Combine with some melted butter and mix until it resembles cookie dough. Press this onto your cake mold, then pour in your filling. Bake to golden perfection!

5. Trifle

Trifle is a traditional English dessert consisting of a liquor-soaked cake, fresh or jelly fruits, and a smooth custard or whipped cream. You’ll layer these components in a tall glass, then chill the entire masterwork before serving.

Modern versions feature a variety of ingredients, like chocolate, coffee, and even fruitcake. Slice your loaf into cubes, then layer them with fresh fruits, chocolate sauce, and cream. Use the biggest glass container you have so you can share this treat with the group.

6. Cake Croutons

When life gives you stale bread (or cake), make croutons! Use these morsels to add extra crunch to desserts or beverages, like ref cakes and milkshakes. Since your cake isn’t overly sweet, you can even add them to savory salads. Make these in three simple steps: slice, toast, and cool. Alternatively, you can cut your loaf into strips to make biscotti. Serve with coffee or dip into salted caramel for a luxurious treat.

7. Cake Shake

Instead of using your cake as a topping, why not mix it into your milkshake? Have you ever heard of cake milkshakes? They only require three ingredients: cake, ice cream, and milk. Add those into a blender, mix, and pour into glasses. Finish with some whipped cream and caramel. Cheers!

8. Chocolate Bark

Who can resist chocolate? Try cutting your cake into small squares or rectangles, like brownies. Dip each piece in melted chocolate (try white or dark!). Leave them to set in the fridge, then surprise your guests with chocolate-coated fruity bars.

Alternatively, you can make chocolate barks that even kids will enjoy. Melt chocolate and spread it in an even layer on a parchment paper-lined baking tray. Top with fruit cake croutons, then chill until set. Break the bark into smaller chunks before serving.

Love it or hate it, fruitcake is here to stay. Try these glow-up suggestions and make the most of your Christmas loaf.