Cream Cheese Fruit Salad
A creamy, fruity salad blending sweet canned fruits with a smooth cream cheese mixture, perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as a refreshing dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix softened cream cheese, half and half, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in drained fruit cocktail, mandarin oranges, pineapple tidbits, and optional coconut and pecans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is well-softened before mixing. You can substitute the half and half with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. If you prefer a sweeter salad, adjust the powdered sugar to taste. Adding a splash of vanilla extract can enhance the flavor profile. Consider using seasonal fruits for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cream Cheese Fruit Salad as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues, or as a delightful dessert after a meal. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Escalloped Baked Corn or Grilled Redfish. Garnish with additional pecans or a sprinkle of coconut for extra texture. Consider serving it in individual cups for a fun presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fruit salad may release some juices over time, so stir gently before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat; simply serve it cold or at room temperature for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Fruit Salad contains roughly 1557 calories, with 17g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 570mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fruit salad a day in advance. However, to prevent the fruits from getting too mushy, it's best to add the fruits just a few hours before serving. This ensures they maintain their texture and freshness for the best flavor.
What other fruits can I add to this recipe?
You can customize this fruit salad with your favorite fruits. Consider adding grapes, sliced strawberries, or diced apples for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to keep the total amount of fruit similar to maintain the balance of flavors in the salad.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cream Cheese Fruit Salad is suitable for vegetarians as all the ingredients are plant-based, except for the cream cheese. Just ensure that the cream cheese you use does not contain any animal-derived rennet if you are catering to strict vegetarians.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).