Description
A luscious and creamy cheesecake salad that combines the flavors of classic cheesecake with fresh fruits and marshmallows. This no-bake dessert salad is quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat any day.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Mixture
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit and Extras
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 2 bananas, sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent banana browning, optional)
Instructions
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy, creating a rich base for the salad.
- Mix in Sugar and Vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until all ingredients are combined and the mixture is sweetened evenly.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until the texture is smooth and creamy, avoiding deflation.
- Prepare Bananas: In a separate bowl, toss sliced bananas with lemon juice if using, to prevent browning and maintain freshness.
- Add Fruits and Marshmallows: Combine the strawberries, blueberries, grapes, mini marshmallows, and bananas (if prepared) into the cream cheese mixture.
- Fold to Coat: Gently fold the fruit and marshmallows into the creamy mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated without mashing the fruit.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the texture to set.
- Serve: Serve the cheesecake salad cold as a delightful dessert or sweet side dish.
Notes
- To keep bananas from browning, toss them in lemon juice just before adding to the salad.
- This salad is best served chilled and can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Feel free to substitute or add other fruit based on seasonality and preference.
- Mini marshmallows add a fun, sweet texture, but can be omitted for a healthier version.
