If you’re craving a dessert that’s both light and indulgent, the Cheesecake Fruit Salad is the perfect answer. This vibrant and creamy salad blends fresh, juicy fruits with a luscious cheesecake-flavored dressing, creating a refreshing dish that works beautifully as a snack, dessert, or even a festive side dish.
Easy to prepare and fully customizable, this salad combines the best of seasonal fruits with the smooth richness of cream cheese and a hint of vanilla. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Serves 6–8
Fruit Salad:
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup blueberries
- 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 2 medium apples, chopped
- 1 cup green grapes, halved
- 1 medium banana, sliced
Cheesecake Dressing:
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120ml) plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup (60ml) honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Juice of half a lemon
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 30 minutes (optional)
- Total time: About 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
- Wash, peel, and chop all the fruits into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine all the chopped fruit in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Dressing
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Whisk until creamy and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
- Pour the cheesecake dressing over the mixed fruit.
- Gently toss to coat all the fruit evenly without bruising.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the dressing to meld with the fruit.
- Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.
- Great addition to brunch buffets or summer picnics.
- Pair with crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a light accompaniment.
- Add toasted nuts or granola on top for extra crunch.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 7 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 25 grams |
| Sugars | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 70 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Fresh fruits provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Greek yogurt and cream cheese add protein and creaminess with some healthy fats.
- Honey or maple syrup offers natural sweetness without refined sugars.
Tips for Best Results
- Use the freshest, ripest fruits for optimal flavor and texture.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of honey or syrup in the dressing.
- To prevent apples and bananas from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before mixing.
- Customize the fruit selection seasonally based on availability.
Variations to Try
- Substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer taste.
- Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the dressing for citrus brightness.
- Mix in small cubes of fresh mango or pomegranate seeds for extra color and flavor.
- Use flavored Greek yogurt (vanilla or honey) to simplify the dressing.
This Cheesecake Fruit Salad offers a deliciously creamy yet refreshing way to enjoy fresh fruit. Its luscious cheesecake dressing complements the natural sweetness and textures of seasonal fruits, making it an easy and elegant dessert or snack for any occasion.