Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Fruit Salad is a timeless dish that brings together fresh fruit and a smooth, lightly sweetened dressing for a dessert or side that feels both comforting and refreshing. I love how this recipe transforms simple, everyday fruits into something a little more special without requiring complicated steps or advanced techniques. The creamy dressing gently coats each piece of fruit, enhancing natural sweetness rather than overpowering it. This salad works beautifully for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a make-ahead option for busy days. I have prepared this recipe countless times, and it consistently earns compliments for its balance of flavor and texture. It is versatile, visually appealing, and adaptable to seasonal fruit, making it a dependable choice year-round. Whether served as a light dessert or a brunch side, it always feels fresh and satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Strawberries
Strawberries add vibrant color and natural sweetness. Their slightly firm texture holds up well in the creamy dressing.
Pineapple
Pineapple brings brightness and gentle acidity, preventing the salad from tasting overly rich.
Grapes
Grapes add a crisp, juicy bite that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the dressing.
Blueberries
Blueberries provide subtle sweetness and a pop of color while blending seamlessly with other fruits.
Bananas
Bananas contribute softness and mellow sweetness, helping balance the more tart fruits.
Mandarin Oranges
Mandarin oranges add citrusy freshness and lightness to the overall flavor profile.
Whipping Cream
Whipping cream forms the base of the dressing, creating a rich and silky texture.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese adds body and a slight tang, giving the salad its signature creaminess.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the dressing smoothly without any graininess.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla enhances the natural flavors of the fruit and rounds out the sweetness.
Directions
Begin by washing, drying, and preparing all the fruit. Slice strawberries, halve grapes if large, and cut bananas just before assembling to prevent browning. Place all prepared fruit into a large mixing bowl and gently toss to combine.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps. Add whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, then mix until the dressing is thick, smooth, and lightly fluffy. Spoon the dressing over the fruit and fold gently until everything is evenly coated, taking care not to crush the fruit.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Stir gently before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes of chilling time recommended before serving.
Storage/reheating
Store creamy fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Stir gently before serving. This dish is not suitable for reheating and is best enjoyed chilled.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can substitute fruit based on season or preference, such as mango, kiwi, or peaches. For a lighter version, replace half of the whipping cream with Greek yogurt. I have also tried adding a drizzle of honey instead of powdered sugar, which gave a more natural sweetness. For extra texture, mini marshmallows or shredded coconut can be folded in just before serving. If preparing in advance, leave out bananas and add them shortly before serving to maintain freshness. Each variation preserves the creamy character while allowing flexibility.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein (g) | 3 |
| Carbs (g) | 32 |
| Fat (g) | 16 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 9 |
| Fiber (g) | 3 |
| Sugar (g) | 26 |
| Sodium (mg) | 85 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Ensure fruit is completely dry before mixing to prevent thinning the dressing. Chill the salad before serving for best texture. Fold gently to keep the fruit intact and visually appealing.
FAQs
Can I make creamy fruit salad ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made up to one day in advance, though it is best within 24 hours.
How do I prevent bananas from browning?
Add bananas just before serving or toss them lightly with citrus juice.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream alternatives.
Is this salad very sweet?
It is lightly sweetened, and the sweetness can be adjusted to taste.
Can I use frozen fruit?
Fresh fruit is recommended, as frozen fruit releases excess moisture.
What occasions is this best for?
It works well for potlucks, brunches, holidays, and family gatherings.
Conclusion
Creamy Fruit Salad is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights fresh fruit in the most comforting way. With its smooth dressing and vibrant flavors, it remains a reliable favorite that fits effortlessly into any menu.
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