Frozen fruit salad is a delightful and refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the warmer months. This easy-to-make recipe combines creamy and sweet ingredients to create a dish that is both satisfying and versatile. With the inclusion of mini marshmallows, cream cheese, and a medley of fruit, this dessert is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or just looking for a simple dessert to enjoy at home, this frozen fruit salad is an excellent choice.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups Mini Marshmallows
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
- 8 ounces Frozen Whipped Topping, thawed
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) Fruit Cocktail in Juice, thoroughly drained
- ½ cup Maraschino Cherries, drained and halved
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften.
- Drain the Fruit Cocktail: Open the cans of fruit cocktail and drain them thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
- Halve the Maraschino Cherries: Drain the maraschino cherries and cut them in half.
2. Mix the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese, mixing gently until well combined.
- Add the drained fruit cocktail, halved maraschino cherries, and mini marshmallows to the bowl. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Freeze and Serve
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or an airtight container.
- Cover and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until the salad is firm.
- Before serving, let the salad sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
- Serve in individual bowls and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
1. Use High-Quality Ingredients
- Using high-quality fruit cocktail and cream cheese can make a significant difference in the overall taste of the salad.
2. Adjust Sweetness
- If you prefer a sweeter salad, you can add a tablespoon of powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture before folding in the whipped topping.
3. Add Extra Fruit
- For added flavor and texture, consider adding fresh fruits like diced pineapple, strawberries, or blueberries.
4. Make Ahead
- This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the freezer until ready to serve, making it a convenient option for parties and gatherings.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Garnish the salad with a few extra maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added presentation and crunch.
Variations
1. Tropical Frozen Fruit Salad
- Add 1 cup of diced fresh mango and 1 cup of diced fresh pineapple to the mix for a tropical twist.
2. Chocolate Lovers’ Fruit Salad
- Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate-covered strawberries for a decadent version.
3. Nutty Fruit Salad
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
4. Berry Blast Fruit Salad
- Replace the fruit cocktail with 2 cups of mixed berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a berrylicious treat.
5. Citrus Fruit Salad
- Add 1 cup of mandarin orange segments and 1 cup of diced kiwi for a zesty and refreshing variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned fruit cocktail?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit if you prefer. Just make sure to cut the fruit into small, bite-sized pieces and drain any excess juice before adding it to the salad.
2. How long can I store the frozen fruit salad?
The frozen fruit salad can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure it is covered tightly to prevent freezer burn.
3. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?
Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream. Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese.
4. Is this salad suitable for a potluck or picnic?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and any outdoor gathering. Just keep it in a cooler until ready to serve to ensure it stays cold.
5. Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this salad dairy-free by using dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free whipped topping. There are several brands available that offer these alternatives.
Quick & Easy Frozen Fruit Salad is a versatile and delightful dessert that is sure to please any crowd. With its creamy texture and sweet, fruity flavors, it’s a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this frozen fruit salad is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy making and sharing this simple yet delicious dessert with your friends and family!
By following this recipe and incorporating the tips and variations, you’ll be able to create a delicious frozen fruit salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process and the delightful results
