Looking for a delightful and refreshing summer treat to beat the heat? Look no further than this exciting Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad recipe. This classic dessert combines the sweetness of succulent fruits with the creamy goodness of marshmallows and whipped toppings. It’s a carnival of flavors in every bite and is incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a sweet craving on a hot day, this frozen fruit salad will surely brighten up your day.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional summer desserts or looking for a new treat to add to your repertoire, this Frozen Fruit Salad is a must-try. But before you dive into the recipe, let’s explore why this dish is a standout choice for your summer celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad
– Refreshing & Sweet: The perfect blend of fruitiness and creaminess to cool you down on a hot day.
– Simple & Quick: An effortless no-bake dessert that comes together in just 15 minutes.
– Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the fruit mix to suit your preferences and use fresh or canned fruits.
– Make-ahead Option: Prepare in advance and enjoy a ready-to-serve dessert whenever you need it.
Ingredients
– Mini Marshmallows (2 cups): Adds a fluffy texture and sweetness to the salad.
– Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): Provides a creamy base for the salad.
– Frozen Whipped Topping (8 ounces, thawed): Adds richness and lightness to the dish.
– Fruit Cocktail in Juice (2 cans, 15 ounces each, thoroughly drained): Offers a mix of fruits for a colorful and flavorful salad.
– Maraschino Cherries (½ cup, drained and halved): Adds a pop of color and sweetness to the salad mix.
How to Make Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad
– Step 1: Preparation Galore: Generously spritz a 9×13-inch dish with non-stick spray.
– Step 2: Cream Cheese Euphoria: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy using a stand mixer or hand mixer.
– Step 3: Whipped Topping Symphony: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.
– Step 4: Fruit & Fluff Fusion: Add the drained fruit cocktail, halved cherries, and marshmallows to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
– Step 5: Freeze & Patience: Transfer the mixture into the prepared dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze for at least 2 hours.
– Step 6: The Final Act: Thaw the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Storage Options
For leftover frozen fruit salad, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months to maintain its flavor and texture. Avoid refrigeration as it may alter the consistency of the salad.
Variations and Substitutions
– Healthy Twist: Substitute the whipped topping with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
– Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans over the top for added crunch.
– Tropical Flair: Use a mix of tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and kiwis for a different flavor profile.
– Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle chocolate syrup over the thawed salad for a decadent touch.
What to Serve With Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad
– Grilled Pineapple Skewers: The smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple pairs perfectly with the creamy fruit salad.
– Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of zesty lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after a refreshing fruit dessert.
– Summer Berry Salad: A light and fresh salad made with a mix of seasonal berries complements the creaminess of the frozen fruit salad.
– Peach Iced Tea: A chilled glass of peach-infused tea is a delightful beverage to enjoy alongside the frozen fruit salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I use fresh fruits instead of canned fruits ?
Yes, you can swap canned fruits for fresh ones. Just ensure they are well-drained before mixing.
– Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese ?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives for a vegan-friendly version of the salad.
– Can I add extra toppings to the salad before freezing ?
Feel free to customize the salad with additional toppings like shredded coconut, chopped chocolate, or even graham cracker crumbs for extra flavor and texture.
– How long does the frozen fruit salad need to thaw before serving ?
Let the salad thaw for 10-15 minutes at room temperature or in the refrigerator to soften slightly for easier slicing and serving.
After preparing this Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad, expect a delightful dessert that blends the sweetness of fruits with the creamy texture of marshmallows and cream cheese. The refreshing flavors and coolness of the salad will be a hit at summer gatherings, leaving everyone craving more.
Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad
Ingredients
Mini Marshmallows
- 2 cups Mini Marshmallows
Cream Cheese
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese softened
Frozen Whipped Topping
- 8 ounces Frozen Whipped Topping thawed
Fruit Cocktail
- 2 cans Fruit Cocktail in Juice 15 ounces each, thoroughly drained
- 1/2 cup Maraschino Cherries drained and halved
Instructions
- Generously spritz a 9x13-inch dish with non-stick spray.
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy using a stand mixer or hand mixer.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.
- Add the drained fruit cocktail, halved cherries, and marshmallows to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze for at least 2 hours.
- Thaw the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy!