Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad is a nostalgic and delightful dessert that brings back memories of family gatherings and summer picnics. This easy-to-make, creamy, and refreshing treat is perfect for warm weather and special occasions. Packed with a variety of fruits and a hint of citrus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and explore some variations to cater to different preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained well
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen strawberries or raspberries, slightly thawed and chopped
- 1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup maraschino cherries, halved
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Drain the crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges well. Slightly thaw the frozen strawberries or raspberries and chop them. Halve the maraschino cherries and slice the bananas.
- Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined and creamy.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- Combine Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in the drained pineapple, chopped strawberries or raspberries, mandarin oranges, chopped pecans, maraschino cherries, and sliced bananas into the cream cheese mixture. Add the lemon juice and mix gently to combine.
- Freeze the Salad: Pour the fruit mixture into a large, freezer-safe dish or individual serving cups. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Serve: Before serving, let the frozen fruit salad sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. Scoop into bowls or slice if using a larger dish. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Draining: Ensure all canned fruits are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
- Fruit Variations: Feel free to substitute the fruits with your favorites or what you have on hand. Fresh fruits can also be used.
- Serving Ideas: This salad can be served in individual molds or scooped into bowls. Garnish with extra chopped nuts or a sprig of mint for a nice presentation.
Variations
Keto Version
To make this dish keto-friendly:
- Replace the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Use berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, which are lower in carbs.
- Omit the maraschino cherries and bananas as they are higher in sugar.
Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb version:
- Reduce the amount of sugar or use a low-carb sweetener.
- Substitute high-carb fruits with lower-carb options like strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned or frozen fruit? A: Yes, fresh fruit can be used in place of canned or frozen fruit. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and ensure they are not overly juicy.
Q: How long can I store the frozen fruit salad? A: The frozen fruit salad can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure it is well-covered to prevent freezer burn.
Q: Can I make this salad dairy-free? A: Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream in place of heavy cream to make this dish dairy-free.
Q: What is the best way to thaw the salad before serving? A: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to make it easier to scoop or slice.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the salad? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, or additional nuts to enhance the flavor and texture.
Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad is a delightful, refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try the keto and low-carb variations, this frozen treat is a wonderful addition to your dessert repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish with your loved ones!