Cheesecake Fruit Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesecake Fruit Salad is the ultimate dessert for fruit lovers and cheesecake fans alike. The creamy, fluffy cheesecake filling pairs beautifully with the freshness of strawberries, green apples, and grapes, while the crunchy granola or graham crackers add the perfect textural contrast. The caramel drizzle adds an irresistible sweetness that makes this fruit salad a crowd-pleaser. It's quick to prepare and can be chilled ahead of time, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or family meals.

Ingredients

• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved

• 2 cups green apples, cored and diced

• 1 cup red grapes, halved

• 1 cup granola or crushed graham crackers

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.

2. Prepare the Fruit:
   In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, green apples, and grapes. Gently toss to mix.

3. Assemble the Fruit Salad:
   Spread a generous layer of the cheesecake filling over the fruit mixture and gently fold the filling into the fruit, making sure everything is coated evenly. Top with granola or crushed graham crackers for added texture and crunch. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent, sweet finish.

4. Serve:
   Chill the cheesecake fruit salad for about 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and fruity dessert!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour

Variations

• Fruit Variations: You can swap out the strawberries, apples, and grapes for other fruits like blueberries, peaches, or bananas.

• Add-ins: Add nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or try a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipping cream to make this dessert dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the Cheesecake Fruit Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: This dessert is meant to be served chilled, so it does not require reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep the fruit from turning brown?

Tossing the apples in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad can help prevent browning.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cheesecake filling and fruit ahead of time, then assemble the salad just before serving. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Can I use a different type of fruit?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits like peaches, pineapple, or even kiwi.

Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

Yes, you can use whipped topping as a substitute for heavy cream if you'd prefer a quicker option.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for a healthier version?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used to reduce the calorie content, though the texture might be a bit different.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, though the texture of the fruit may soften.

Can I skip the caramel sauce?

Yes, the caramel sauce is optional. If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip it or use honey instead.

Can I add marshmallows to the salad?

Yes, mini marshmallows can be a fun addition for an extra sweetness and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free granola or graham crackers, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

Can I make this without the granola or graham crackers?

Yes, if you prefer a lighter version or need to make it gluten-free, you can skip the granola or graham crackers.

Conclusion

Cheesecake Fruit Salad is a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements that will be a hit at any gathering. Whether you serve it at a holiday dinner, picnic, or casual get-together, it’s sure to impress with its delightful combination of fresh fruit, cheesecake filling, and sweet caramel sauce.

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