Ingredients:
- For the Base:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Fruit Salad:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 cup grapes (red or green), halved
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained (if canned)
- 1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- For Garnish:
- Drizzle of caramel sauce (optional)
- Additional whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
- Prepare the Creamy Base:
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix well.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until combined.
- Combine the Fruit:
- In a large bowl, mix all the prepared fruit (strawberries, pineapple, grapes, blueberries, and mandarin oranges).
- If using, stir in the shredded coconut and nuts for extra texture.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Gently fold the creamy mixture into the fruit until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the fruit.
- Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend and the salad to chill.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Just before serving, drizzle with caramel sauce (if desired) and top with additional whipped cream.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
- Mix and match your favorite fruits to suit your taste!
This salad is creamy, sweet, and fruity—a dessert that’s hard to beat! Let me know how you like it!