Description
Cheesecake Fruit Salad is a deliciously creamy and refreshing dessert combining the tangy richness of cheesecake flavors with a medley of fresh fruits. This no-bake salad is perfect for summer gatherings and holidays, combining soft cream cheese, vanilla pudding mix, and an assortment of juicy berries and fruits to create a light yet indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Mixture
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant cheesecake pudding mix, dry
- 1 cup vanilla yogurt
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 banana, sliced (add just before serving)
Optional Toppings
- Mini marshmallows
- Chopped nuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps for the best texture.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Yogurt: Add the instant cheesecake pudding mix, vanilla yogurt, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is fluffy and light.
- Incorporate the Fruit: Gently fold in the strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple chunks, making sure all the fruit is evenly coated with the cheesecake mixture without crushing it.
- Chill the Salad: Refrigerate the fruit salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up slightly.
- Add Banana and Serve: Add the sliced banana just before serving to avoid browning. Serve the salad chilled, topped optionally with mini marshmallows or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm fruit to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Add the banana just before serving to keep it from browning.
- Substitute vanilla yogurt with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavor melding and texture.
- Optional toppings add texture and enhance the dessert presentation.