Frozen fruit salad is a refreshing, creamy dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a cool treat anytime. This recipe is easy to make, and the frozen fruit mixed with creamy ingredients creates a delightful, ice cream-like texture. It’s great for serving at parties, barbecues, or family dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 2 cups frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 2-3 bananas, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue to beat until well combined and creamy.
2. Fold in the Fruit and Mix-ins:
- Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, and sliced bananas (if using).
- Stir in the sweetened shredded coconut and chopped nuts, if desired.
3. Add the Whipped Topping and Marshmallows:
- Fold in the thawed whipped topping and mini marshmallows until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Transfer to a Freezer-Safe Dish:
- Spoon the fruit salad mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, loaf pan, or individual molds, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Freeze:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight, until firm.
6. Serve:
- When ready to serve, remove the frozen fruit salad from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly.
- Cut into squares or scoop into bowls and serve immediately.
Tips:
- Customizing: Feel free to use different fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or mango. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid from canned or thawed frozen fruits to avoid a watery salad.
- Presentation: For a more elegant presentation, you can freeze the fruit salad in silicone molds or muffin tins, then pop them out just before serving.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in the freezer, tightly covered, for up to 1 week. Let soften slightly before serving again.
Frozen fruit salad is a delightful combination of creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors that will cool you down and satisfy your sweet tooth!