Rich'S Magnolia Room Fruit Salad
A creamy, fruity frozen dessert with a delightful mix of peaches, cherries, pineapple, and marshmallows, perfect for a refreshing treat at gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. cream cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 cup confectioners sugar ⓘ
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract ⓘ
- 6 1/2 oz. can sliced peaches, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained ⓘ
- 26 oz. can fruit cocktail, drained ⓘ
- 13 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained ⓘ
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows ⓘ
- 1/2 cup whipped cream ⓘ
Instructions
- Place cream cheese in a mixer bowl.
- Add confectioners sugar and blend in mayonnaise.
- Add vanilla extract to the mixture.
- Gently fold in sliced peaches, maraschino cherries, fruit cocktail, crushed pineapple, and marshmallows.
- Fold in whipped cream until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into large paper-lined muffin tins.
- Freeze until firm, about 4-6 hours.
- Before serving, remove from freezer about 10 to 15 minutes, but do not allow to become soft.
- Remove paper liners before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute fresh fruit for canned varieties, such as diced strawberries or blueberries. Mixing in a handful of nuts can add a nice crunch. Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier blending. This fruit salad pairs beautifully with Mandarin Orange Fluff Dessert for a delightful spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing fruit salad as a stand-alone dessert or alongside savory dishes like grilled meats. It also makes a great addition to brunch spreads. Consider pairing it with Luncheon Biscuits for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. Garnish with mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended after serving, as the texture may change. If you need to reheat a portion, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes, but do not microwave as it can make the whipped cream lose its structure.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rich'S Magnolia Room Fruit Salad contains roughly 1088 calories, with 2g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 597mg per serving (26% 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 absolutely use fresh fruit! Just make sure to chop it into similar sizes for even mixing. Fresh fruits like strawberries, grapes, and kiwi can enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the fruit salad a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients and freeze as directed. Remove it from the freezer about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop.
What can I serve this fruit salad with?
This fruit salad is versatile and pairs well with various dishes. Consider serving it with grilled chicken or pork for a balanced meal. It also complements sweet breakfasts like pancakes or waffles beautifully, adding a fruity touch.
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).