Name: Cheesecake Fruit Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (or a mix of both); 1 cup heavy cream (whipped); 2 cups strawberries, sliced; 2 cups grapes (red or green), halved; 1 cup blueberries; 1 banana, sliced; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for extra texture)

I love this Cheesecake Fruit Salad because it’s a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors all in one bowl. The rich cheesecake-flavored base pairs perfectly with fresh, vibrant fruits, making it a refreshing treat that’s easy to whip up for any occasion.

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (or a mix of both)

1 cup heavy cream (whipped)

2 cups strawberries, sliced

1 cup blueberries

1 banana, sliced

2 cups grapes (red or green), halved

1 cup pineapple chunks

1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for extra texture)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Then, I add the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and mix until well combined.

Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, I whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. I gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until the texture is light and fluffy.

Prepare the fruit: I wash and chop all the fruit as needed, then add the strawberries, grapes, blueberries, banana, and pineapple chunks to the creamy mixture. I gently fold the fruit into the creamy base to keep the fruit intact.

Optional marshmallows: If I want extra sweetness and texture, I stir in the mini marshmallows at this stage.

Chill & serve: I refrigerate the fruit salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Then, I serve it chilled and enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people.
Preparation time is around 15 minutes, and chilling time is at least 1 hour before serving.

Variations

I sometimes swap the pineapple for mango or kiwi for a tropical twist.

For a dairy-free version, I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free yogurt.

Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts gives a nice crunch.

If I want it sweeter, I add a little honey or maple syrup to the cream cheese base.

Using different berries or seasonal fruits helps me customize it based on what’s fresh.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the fresh fruit, it’s best eaten within that time to keep the textures fresh. I don’t recommend reheating this salad since it’s meant to be enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?

Yes, I like to prepare it a few hours in advance so the flavors meld well, but I don’t recommend making it more than a day ahead to keep the fruit fresh and prevent it from getting soggy.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! I often swap in whatever fresh fruits I have on hand, like peaches, mangoes, or kiwi. Just make sure to adjust the quantities to keep the balance.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

If I want a lighter version, I sometimes use mascarpone or even a thick Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese, though the texture will be slightly different.

Can I omit the marshmallows?

Yes, the marshmallows are optional. I add them when I want a bit of extra sweetness and fun texture, but the salad is delicious without them too.

How do I keep the bananas from browning?

To prevent browning, I try to add the bananas right before serving or toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before folding them in.

Conclusion

I find this Cheesecake Fruit Salad to be a perfect balance of creamy and fruity, making it a favorite go-to dessert or snack. It’s simple to prepare, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a family meal or a party, this salad never fails to impress with its fresh flavors and indulgent texture.

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