If you’re looking for a cool, creamy, and refreshing treat for the warmer months, this fruit salad frozen dessert is the perfect choice. Combining vibrant fruits like pineapple, mandarin oranges, strawberries, and bananas with a creamy, dreamy base, this dessert is sure to delight your taste buds. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings, parties, or simply a sweet snack.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make the best fruit salad frozen dessert that is creamy, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a treat at home, this dessert will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients for Fruit Salad Frozen Dessert
To make this delicious fruit salad frozen dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- – 20-oz can of pineapple chunks (well-drained)
- Adds a sweet, tropical flavor to the base.
- – 10-ounce container of raspberries or strawberries (gently defrosted and diced)
- These berries bring a burst of freshness.
- – 11-ounce can of drained mandarin oranges
- Adds a citrusy zing to balance the sweetness.
- – 8 oz cream cheese (softened for easy mixing)
- – 1 cup powdered sugar
- To sweeten the creamy base.
- – 1 cup whipped cream
- Light and fluffy to bring everything together.
- – 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
- – 1/4 cup maraschino cherries (halved)
- For a pop of color and flavor.
- – 1-2 bananas (sliced)
- Adds richness and sweetness to the salad.
- – 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- To prevent the banana slices from browning.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Fruit Salad Frozen Dessert
Follow these simple steps to make the fruit salad frozen dessert:
Step 1: Cream the Sugar and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and well-combined. This will form the creamy base for your fruit salad.
Step 2: Add Whipped Cream
Gently fold in the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Stir until everything is well-incorporated, and you have a smooth, fluffy texture.
Step 3: Add the Fruits
Stir in the mandarin oranges, diced strawberries (or raspberries), and crushed pineapple (make sure it’s drained well to avoid excess liquid). Gently toss the fruit to ensure it’s evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Add the Pecans and Maraschino Cherries
Sprinkle the chopped pecans and halved maraschino cherries evenly over the creamy fruit mixture. These add a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness to the salad.
Step 5: Prepare the Bananas
To prevent the bananas from browning, toss the banana slices with lemon juice in a small bowl. Once coated, gently fold the banana slices into the fruit mixture.
Step 6: Freeze the Dessert
Spread the fruit salad mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the dessert is solid and firm.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the dessert is fully frozen, remove it from the freezer and let it rest for 10-15 minutes to make slicing easier. Cut into squares and serve immediately. Enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness of your homemade frozen fruit salad dessert!
Helpful Tips for the Best Fruit Salad Frozen Dessert
Substitute for Cream Cheese
For a lighter version, substitute the cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese (a lower-fat option) or use a light cream cheese. You can also use light whipped topping instead of heavy cream for a less calorie-dense dessert.
Customize the Fruits
This fruit salad frozen dessert is very versatile! Feel free to substitute the fruits based on what’s in season or what you prefer. Try using peaches, mangoes, or a combination of berries for a delightful variation.
Make It More Elegant
To elevate the presentation, serve each slice of dessert on a bed of fresh lettuce for a visually appealing touch.
Prevent Watery Texture
Always make sure to drain any canned fruits (like the pineapple and mandarin oranges) well. This prevents the salad from becoming watery and helps maintain a creamy texture.
Enhance the Flavor
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a dash of rum or orange liqueur to the mixture. This will add an elegant note, perfect for special occasions.
Toast the Pecans
Toasting the pecans will bring out even more of their natural nuttiness, making this dessert even more flavorful.
Why Fruit Salad Frozen Dessert is Perfect for Any Occasion
This fruit salad frozen dessert is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With its bright mix of fruit, creamy base, and nutty crunch, it’s a treat that everyone will love. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days when you need a refreshing dessert without much fuss. It’s also a great way to incorporate fresh fruit into your diet while indulging in something sweet.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or just need a sweet treat after dinner, this dessert fits the bill. It’s light, refreshing, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Key Benefits of Fruit Salad Frozen Dessert:
- Refreshing and Light: Perfect for hot days and summer parties.
- No-Bake and Easy to Prepare: This dessert doesn’t require an oven, making it simple to prepare.
- Customizable: You can swap fruits and add your favorite ingredients for a unique twist.
- Make-Ahead: Freezes well, allowing you to prepare it in advance for parties or meals.
- Low in Fat Options: Easily adapted to a lighter version with healthier ingredient swaps.
Final Thoughts: The Best Fruit Salad Frozen Dessert Recipe
This fruit salad frozen dessert is the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy. It’s easy to make, customizable, and incredibly refreshing. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert for a casual family dinner or a more elegant gathering, it’s sure to impress your guests. Best of all, you can make it ahead of time, freeing up your schedule while still providing a tasty treat everyone will enjoy.
So next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor, try this fruit salad frozen dessert. You won’t regret it!