Frozen Fruit Salad(Alaska)
A colorful, refreshing frozen fruit salad featuring mixed fruit, nuts, and whipped cream, perfect for parties, picnics, or holiday gatherings with a sweet, creamy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain fruit cocktail and pineapple, reserving the juices.
- Soften gelatin in the fruit juices; heat until dissolved.
- Allow the gelatin mixture to cool and set aside.
- Add the drained fruit to the gelatin mixture.
- Let the mixture set until it becomes soft.
- Add chopped nuts and mini marshmallows to the set fruit mixture.
- Fold in whipped cream.
- Pour the mixture into a mold, preferably a large tube pan.
- Freeze overnight until solid.
- To serve, set the mold in warm water to loosen.
- Invert onto a plate and slice to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise, which adds a tangy flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese. Experiment with different fruits like strawberries or blueberries for added variety, and adjusting the sweetness with honey can enhance flavors. Ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved to avoid clumps in your fruit salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this frozen fruit salad as a delightful dessert at summer gatherings or pair it with savory dishes like grilled meats. It complements a fresh garden salad beautifully. For added flair, garnish with mint leaves or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This dish also pairs well with Baked Lemon Walleye for a refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, transfer to the refrigerator to thaw for a few hours before serving. Avoid refreezing once it has thawed, as the texture will change. For best results, slice and serve while still partially frozen for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frozen Fruit Salad(Alaska) contains roughly 1722 calories, with 20g protein, 230g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (173% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (139% of the Daily Value), and calcium (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1335mg per serving (58% 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 use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit, but make sure to cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. Fresh fruit will provide a different texture and flavor, so adjust the sweetness of the gelatin mixture accordingly to accommodate the natural sugars from the fresh produce.
How long does it take to freeze completely?
Typically, the fruit salad will need to freeze for at least 6-8 hours, but overnight is recommended for best results. This ensures that it sets properly and is easy to slice when serving. Check for firmness before serving to ensure it's solid enough.
Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This frozen fruit salad can be prepared a few days in advance and stored in the freezer until you're ready to serve. Just remember to set it out to thaw slightly before serving, so it's easier to slice and enjoy.
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).