Salad Topping

Prep: 10 min

A creamy, nutty salad topping with a hint of vanilla, perfect for fruit salads or gelatin dishes, adding richness and texture to your favorite desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup sugar or less
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 cup pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix sour cream, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla thoroughly.
  2. Spread over firm gelatin or use with fruit salads.
  3. Store in refrigerator.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider using No-Fat Sweetened Condensed Milk instead of sugar. If you want to enhance the flavor, adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the taste. You can also swap out pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds based on preference. Mixing in fresh herbs like chives can add a unique twist to the topping.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy salad topping pairs beautifully with fruit salads, enhancing the overall flavor. It can also be spread over firm gelatin for a delightful dessert. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a unique touch, try it with some crunchy Carameled Peanuts sprinkled on top for added texture.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover salad topping in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This topping is best enjoyed fresh but can be used after chilling. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change once thawed. Before serving again, give it a good stir to regain its creamy consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Salad Topping contains roughly 281 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein.

281 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.3g 11% DV
Total Fat 9.7g 12% DV
Carbs 27.8g 10% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 5.1g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 223.2mg 10% DV
Potassium 300.6mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 32.4mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 134.4mcg 15% DV
Vitamin C 20.6mg 23% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 114.1mg 9% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be substituted for regular cream cheese to reduce calories while maintaining a similar flavor and texture. Just ensure to mix it well to achieve a smooth consistency with the sour cream.

What fruits go well with this salad topping?

This salad topping complements a wide range of fruits, including strawberries, blueberries, and sliced bananas. You can also use it with tropical fruits like pineapple and mango for a refreshing twist.

How can I make this topping dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use dairy-free sour cream. Check labels to ensure all ingredients are dairy-free, and adjust sweeteners to taste.

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).

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