Creamy Fruit Salad with Fresh Berries and Tropical Flavors Recipe
Introduction
This refreshing fruit salad is a delightful blend of tropical and fresh fruits combined with a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a light dessert any time of the year.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) fruit cocktail, drained (chunky tropical style recommended)
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 2 large bananas, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 1 package (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 2 kiwis, peeled and diced
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the Cool Whip, sweetened condensed milk, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Step 2: Add the drained fruit cocktail, crushed pineapple, cherry pie filling, and sliced bananas to the bowl. Gently fold the fruits into the creamy mixture to avoid crushing the fruit.
- Step 3: If using fresh strawberries, blueberries, and kiwis, add them now and carefully fold them in to combine without breaking them apart.
- Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate the fruit salad for at least 4 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Step 5: Serve the fruit salad chilled. Enjoy as a refreshing side dish or a sweet treat!
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans before serving.
- Replace Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly.
- Try adding other seasonal fruits like mango or grapes to customize the salad.
Storage
Store the fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again, as liquid may separate slightly. This salad is best served chilled and does not freeze well.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this fruit salad in advance?
Yes, it’s best to prepare it at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to combine, but avoid making it more than a day ahead to keep the fresh fruit from becoming mushy.
Can I substitute fresh fruit for canned fruit?
Absolutely. Fresh fruit can be used, but keep in mind canned fruit tends to be softer and mixes easily, while fresh fruit adds firmer texture. Just make sure to drain canned fruit well if you use it alongside fresh ingredients.
PrintCreamy Fruit Salad with Fresh Berries and Tropical Flavors Recipe
A vibrant and creamy fruit salad that combines canned tropical fruits with fresh berries and kiwi, all mixed in a luscious blend of sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, and Cool Whip. Perfectly chilled, this refreshing dessert is easy to prepare and great for parties, potlucks, or a healthy treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Fruit Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) fruit cocktail, drained (chunky tropical style recommended)
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 2 large bananas, sliced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 2 kiwis, peeled and diced
Dressings and Mix-ins
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 1 package (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, combine the Cool Whip, sweetened condensed milk, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating a creamy base for the fruit salad.
- Add canned fruits and bananas: Gently fold the drained fruit cocktail, drained crushed pineapple, cherry pie filling, and sliced bananas into the creamy mixture, ensuring the fruits are evenly coated without mashing.
- Incorporate fresh fruits: If using fresh strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, add them now. Gently fold these fresh fruits into the mixture to evenly distribute without bruising.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up slightly.
- Serve: After chilling, serve the fruit salad cold. Enjoy this creamy, fruity treat as a dessert or side dish.
Notes
- For best texture, add fresh fruits just before chilling to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Ensure all canned fruits are well drained to avoid excess liquid in the salad.
- Feel free to substitute or add other fresh seasonal fruits according to preference.
- This salad is best served within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
Keywords: fruit salad, creamy fruit salad, no-bake dessert, summer dessert, easy fruit salad
